I recently test drove an 04 Prius the other day and it seems like the inverter whine was really load compared to my friend's 06. Is this a function of it being an earlier design, or can that indicate transmission problems. It also seemed like the engine would rev a bit higher when accelerating, almost like an automatic that was slipping more, compared to my friend's 06, which seems to be better at keeping engine speed down.
I own a 2004 and 2007, and have not noticed any driveability differences as you describe. I am wondering whether the 2004 that you test drove has all of the firmware changes issued for the hybrid vehicle and engine ECUs.
It might not, although the owner claimed to have comprehensive service records. I wish I had thumbed through them, but if I see similar behavior later I can always look at what the PO has done.
i had an 04 and an 08 and they were virtually identical. although, i always felt the 08 had about 5-10% better mpg's. just anecdotal experience tho. as for as sounds, no difference.
