2004 Toyota Prius 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 Toyota Prius. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Toyota Prius 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 193 more horse power than 2004 Toyota Prius. (77 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2004 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 384 kg more than 2004 Toyota Prius. 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, 2009 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 221 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Toyota Prius.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Toyota Prius | 2009 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Prius | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1496 cc | 3456 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 77 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 115 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 13.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1684 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 4790 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1920 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1500 mm | 1770 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2760 mm | 2800 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 4.3 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 73 L |
