2008 Mazda 2 vs. 2007 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2008 Mazda 2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Toyota Highlander 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 113 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 2. (102 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 389 kg more than 2008 Mazda 2. 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, 2007 Toyota Highlander (301 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 164 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 2. (137 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2007 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 2. 2007 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 2 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:
| 2008 Mazda 2 | 2007 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 2 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1498 cc | 3311 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 102 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 301 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3890 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 5.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 43 L | 72 L |
