2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2013 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2013 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 5 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Toyota 4Runner (266 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 162 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 924 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 Toyota 4Runner 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 2013 Toyota 4Runner. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2013 Toyota 4Runner (377 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 232 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2013 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2013 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2013 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1594 cc | 4000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 266 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 377 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 94 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 2184 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4820 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1925 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 87 L |
