2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Toyota RAV4
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Toyota RAV4. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota RAV4 would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Toyota RAV4 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Toyota RAV4 (130 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Toyota RAV4 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Toyota RAV4 weights approximately 205 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 Toyota RAV4 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 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, 1998 Toyota RAV4 (178 Nm @ 4600 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Toyota RAV4 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1998 Toyota RAV4 | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | RAV4 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 8.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1285 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1700 mm |
