2009 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2013 Toyota Highlander
To start off, 2013 Toyota Highlander is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Mazda RX-8. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Mazda RX-8 would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2013 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 4 more horse power than 2013 Toyota Highlander. (228 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2013 Toyota Highlander. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2013 Toyota Highlander weights approximately 1040 kg more than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2013 Toyota Highlander is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2013 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, 2013 Toyota Highlander (292 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda RX-8. (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2013 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda RX-8 | 2013 Toyota Highlander | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | RX-8 | Highlander |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 292 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | CVT |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1125 kg | 2165 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4470 mm | 4795 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1910 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1760 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2790 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 65 L |
