2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2011 Toyota Highlander is newer by 5 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 2,700 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Toyota Highlander (187 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 555 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. 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, 2011 Toyota Highlander (252 Nm @ 4100 RPM) has 65 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2011 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. 2011 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2011 Toyota Highlander | |
Make | Mazda | Toyota |
Model | 3 | Highlander |
Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2700 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 187 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
Torque | 187 Nm | 252 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4100 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1235 kg | 1790 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4785 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1910 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2789 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |