1998 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Ford Explorer (160 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (144 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Explorer weights approximately 677 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 1998 Ford Explorer (311 Nm) has 127 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
