2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2007 Toyota Highlander is newer by 3 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 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Toyota Highlander (268 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 120 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 121 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, 2007 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1356 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.4 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
