1996 Ford Aerostar vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Aerostar. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Aerostar would be higher. At 2,979 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Ford Aerostar is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 6 (168 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 1996 Ford Aerostar. (133 HP @ 4600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Aerostar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Aerostar weights approximately 117 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6.
Because 1996 Ford Aerostar 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 1996 Ford Aerostar. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6, 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 Mazda 6 (226 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Aerostar. (217 Nm @ 2800 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 6 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Aerostar.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Aerostar | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Aerostar | 6 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Minivan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2979 cc | 2488 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 133 HP | 168 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4600 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 217 Nm | 226 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1515 kg | 1398 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4450 mm | 4760 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2730 mm |
