1995 Ford Ranger vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 16 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,982 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 19 more horse power than 1995 Ford Ranger. (148 HP @ 4750 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1995 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Ford Ranger weights approximately 38 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 1995 Ford Ranger 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 1995 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 1995 Ford Ranger (257 Nm @ 2650 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1995 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Ford Ranger | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2982 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4750 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2650 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1428 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
