1996 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2006 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2006 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 3,538 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Toyota RAV4. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 115 kg more than 2006 Toyota RAV4.
Because 1996 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Toyota RAV4. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Toyota RAV4 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2006 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota RAV4. (172 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota RAV4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota RAV4 | 2006 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3538 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 172 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 11.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1690 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2670 mm |
