2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2002 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 2,260 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 2002 Toyota RAV4. (145 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota RAV4. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 7 kg more than 2002 Toyota RAV4. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (203 Nm) has 3 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota RAV4. (200 Nm). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota RAV4.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2002 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 145 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1670 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
