2008 Toyota Highlander vs. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (209 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 191 kg more than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata 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 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander, 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, 2008 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 97 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata. 2008 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2008 Toyota Highlander | 2011 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
Make | Toyota | Mazda |
Model | Highlander | MX-5 Miata |
Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3311 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 209 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 287 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1139 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 3995 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1245 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2329 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.6 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 8.9 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 48 L |