2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1996 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 2,982 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (197 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 465 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 1996 Toyota 4Runner is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 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, 1996 Toyota 4Runner (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (222 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1996 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2005 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota 4Runner will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda RX-8 | 1996 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1311 cc | 2982 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 21.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1385 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1700 mm |
