2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2007 Toyota Highlander is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Toyota Highlander (215 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 76 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (139 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 24 kg more than 2007 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2007 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, 2007 Toyota Highlander (301 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 119 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2007 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2007 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2007 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Mazda | Toyota |
Model | 3 | Highlander |
Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3311 cc |
Horse Power | 139 HP | 215 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
Torque | 182 Nm | 301 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1134 kg | 1110 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 4700 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1730 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 72 L |