1997 Ford Ranger vs. 2012 Mazda CX-7
To start off, 2012 Mazda CX-7 is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,507 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (244 HP @ 5000 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 1997 Ford Ranger. (118 HP @ 5000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7 should accelerate faster than 1997 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda CX-7 weights approximately 323 kg more than 1997 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Mazda CX-7, 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, 2012 Mazda CX-7 (349 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 151 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Ford Ranger. (198 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2012 Mazda CX-7 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Ford Ranger | 2012 Mazda CX-7 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | CX-7 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2507 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 244 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 198 Nm | 349 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1395 kg | 1718 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4770 mm | 4681 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1872 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1646 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2751 mm |
