2008 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2012 Toyota Highlander is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 546 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6.
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, 2012 Toyota Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 129 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (207 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 6 | 2012 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 6 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3500 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 | 207 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1384 kg | 1930 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4620 mm | 4785 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2789 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 73 L |
