1997 Toyota RAV4 vs. 2011 Toyota Tacoma
To start off, 2011 Toyota Tacoma is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 2,694 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Tacoma is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Tacoma (159 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 1997 Toyota RAV4. (126 HP @ 5400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Tacoma should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Tacoma weights approximately 30 kg more than 1997 Toyota RAV4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Toyota Tacoma. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 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, 2011 Toyota Tacoma (245 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota RAV4. (173 Nm @ 4600 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Tacoma will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota RAV4.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Toyota RAV4 | 2011 Toyota Tacoma | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | RAV4 | Tacoma |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2694 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 126 HP | 159 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 173 Nm | 245 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4600 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 3 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4120 mm | 4840 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1900 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1670 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2800 mm |
