2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2006 Toyota Highlander is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Highlander (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 132 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 200 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Toyota Highlander (302 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2006 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 302 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |
