1996 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander

To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 3,454 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 731 kg more than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota 4Runner will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Toyota 4Runner 2009 Toyota Highlander
Make Toyota Toyota
Model 4Runner Highlander
Year Released 1996 2009
Body Type SUV SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2982 cc 3454 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 123 HP 270 HP
Engine RPM 3600 RPM 6200 RPM
Torque 295 Nm 336 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 4700 RPM
Engine Compression Ratio 21.2:1 10.0:1
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline
Drive Type 4WD 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 7 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1850 kg 2581 kg
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1920 mm


 

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