2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander is newer by 9 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 2,700 cc (4 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota Highlander (184 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 463 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander (252 Nm) has 49 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 2013 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 | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 2700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 184 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 252 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 105 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1282 kg | 1745 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4550 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 7.4 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 9.4 L/100km | 10.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
