2008 Mazda 6 vs. 2002 Toyota Prius
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Toyota Prius. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Toyota Prius would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda 6 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 6 (145 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2002 Toyota Prius. (71 HP @ 4500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2002 Toyota Prius. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 6 weights approximately 120 kg more than 2002 Toyota Prius. 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, 2008 Mazda 6 (184 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Toyota Prius. (115 Nm @ 4200 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Toyota Prius. 2002 Toyota Prius has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Toyota Prius will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 2002 Toyota Prius | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 6 | Prius |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1497 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 145 HP | 71 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 184 Nm | 115 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4760 mm | 4310 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2560 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 48 L |
