1996 Ford Ranger vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 13 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (141 HP @ 3500 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 1996 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 90 kg more than 1996 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 162 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Ford Ranger | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
