2009 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 3,954 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2009 Toyota 4Runner. (236 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2009 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 weights approximately 154 kg more than 2009 Toyota 4Runner. 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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota 4Runner. (361 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota 4Runner. 2009 Toyota 4Runner has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 | 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | 4Runner | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3954 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 361 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1810 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2800 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 60 L |
