2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2008 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2008 Toyota RAV4 is newer by 4 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota RAV4 (269 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 132 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.
Because 2008 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, 2008 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, 2008 Toyota RAV4 (334 Nm) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2008 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2008 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3546 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 144 HP | 269 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 334 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1223 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4540 mm | 4610 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1750 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2670 mm |
| Fuel Consumption | 6.7 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 8.4 L/100km | 12.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.8 L/100km | 10.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
