2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2010 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2010 Toyota Highlander is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 3,300 cc (6 cylinders), 2010 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 925 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2010 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 Toyota Highlander 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, 2010 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 141 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2010 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 0 HP | 270 HP |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 2105 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
