2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,309 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Highlander (230 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 700 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 Toyota Highlander is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Highlander will offer significantly more control. 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, 2005 Toyota Highlander (343 Nm) has 198 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm). This means 2005 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2005 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1596 cc | 3309 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 230 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 343 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 92 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1085 kg | 1785 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2510 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 73 L |
