2009 Toyota 4Runner vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 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 4,000 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota 4Runner is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota 4Runner (233 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota 4Runner should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 Mazda 3, 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 (266 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota 4Runner | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Toyota | Mazda |
| Model | 4Runner | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4000 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 233 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 266 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4810 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 14.7 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
