2004 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2009 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2004 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2004 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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 Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda RX-8. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Mazda RX-8 | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Mazda | Toyota |
Model | RX-8 | Highlander |
Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3456 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 270 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 336 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4790 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1920 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2800 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 73 L |