2002 Mazda 6 vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 122 more horse power than 2002 Mazda 6. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda 6 weights approximately 93 kg more than 2009 Toyota Highlander.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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 155 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda 6. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2002 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2002 Mazda 6 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:
| 2002 Mazda 6 | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 6 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 73 L |
