1996 Ford Ranger vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1996 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 30 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Ford Ranger weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 1996 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 1996 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 1996 Ford Ranger (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1996 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
