2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2009 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 5 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 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 153 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (83 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 175 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 2009 Toyota 4Runner 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, 2009 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, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 131 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (230 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2009 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2009 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1349 cc | 3954 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 83 HP | 236 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 361 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1155 kg | 1330 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4810 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 87 L |
