2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2006 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,310 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Toyota Highlander (268 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 70 kg more than 2006 Toyota Highlander.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 2006 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1307 cc | 3310 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 228 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8200 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 211 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.2 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |
