2003 Mazda 6 vs. 1988 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2003 Mazda 6 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,446 cc (4 cylinders), 1988 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 6 (164 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 79 more horse power than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. (85 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 365 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6.
Because 1988 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 6. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 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, 2003 Mazda 6 (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Toyota 4Runner. (189 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Toyota 4Runner.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 6 | 1988 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 6 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2261 cc | 2446 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 164 HP | 85 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 207 Nm | 189 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.6 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 92 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1465 kg | 1830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4480 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2630 mm |
