2009 Toyota Highlander vs. 1998 Toyota 4Runner
To start off, 2009 Toyota Highlander is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Toyota 4Runner. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Toyota 4Runner would be higher. At 3,311 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Toyota Highlander is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Toyota Highlander (206 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 1998 Toyota 4Runner. (123 HP @ 3600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Toyota Highlander should accelerate faster than 1998 Toyota 4Runner. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Toyota 4Runner weights approximately 520 kg more than 2009 Toyota Highlander.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or 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, 1998 Toyota 4Runner (295 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 83 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Toyota Highlander. (212 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1998 Toyota 4Runner will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Toyota Highlander. 2009 Toyota Highlander has automatic transmission and 1998 Toyota 4Runner has manual transmission. 1998 Toyota 4Runner 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 | 1998 Toyota 4Runner | |
| Make | Toyota | Toyota |
| Model | Highlander | 4Runner |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3311 cc | 2982 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 206 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Torque | 212 Nm | 295 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 21.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline / Electric Hybrid | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1330 kg | 1850 kg |
| Vehicle Width | 1920 mm | 1700 mm |
