2008 Toyota Highlander vs. 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA
To start off, 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA is newer by 5 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 3,546 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. (165 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 202 kg more than 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2013 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 2013 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 (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 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 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA. 2008 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA has manual transmission. 2013 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 | 2013 Mazda MX-5 MIATA | |
Make | Toyota | Mazda |
Model | Highlander | MX-5 MIATA |
Year Released | 2008 | 2013 |
Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3546 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 270 HP | 165 HP |
Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 336 Nm | 190 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 2 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1384 kg | 1182 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4032 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1740 mm | 1255 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2330 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.8 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 9.7 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 48 L |