1997 Ford Explorer vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 67 more horse power than 1997 Ford Explorer. (161 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Ford Explorer weights approximately 472 kg more than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Let's talk about torque, 1997 Ford Explorer (311 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Explorer | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 161 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1428 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2710 mm |
