2009 Toyota 4Runner vs. 1997 Toyota Avensis
To start off, 2009 Toyota 4Runner is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Avensis. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Avensis would be higher. At 3,956 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (123 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Avensis. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 82 kg more than 1997 Toyota Avensis. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Toyota 4Runner 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 2009 Toyota 4Runner. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Toyota Avensis, 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, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 183 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Avensis. (178 Nm @ 4400 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Avensis. 2009 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota Avensis has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota Avensis will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota 4Runner will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota 4Runner | 1997 Toyota Avensis | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | 4Runner | Avensis |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3956 cc | 1988 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 178 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 60 L |
