2003 Mazda 2 vs. 2009 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 3,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 105 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 2. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 215 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2. 2009 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 2 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 2 | 2009 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 2 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3956 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1550 mm | 1810 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 87 L |
