2009 Toyota Highlander vs. 1997 Toyota Camry
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Camry. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Camry would be higher. At 3,456 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (270 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 136 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Camry. (134 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Camry. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Camry weights approximately 83 kg more than 2009 Toyota Highlander.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Highlander (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 140 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Camry. (196 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Toyota Highlander will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Camry. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1997 Toyota Camry has manual transmission. 1997 Toyota Camry will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Toyota Highlander will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Toyota Highlander | 1997 Toyota Camry | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Highlander | Camry |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3456 cc | 2163 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 270 HP | 134 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 336 Nm | 196 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1332 kg | 1415 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1810 mm |
