2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2007 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Toyota Highlander. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Toyota Highlander would be higher. At 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2007 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Toyota Highlander (268 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 114 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 230 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 2007 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, 2007 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, 2007 Toyota Highlander (287 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 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 | 2007 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | 3 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 cc | 3311 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 154 HP | 268 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5600 RPM |
| Torque | 204 Nm | 287 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 1355 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 4720 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2720 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.2 L/100km | 8.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 65 L |
