1998 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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 56 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Ford Explorer weights approximately 815 kg more than 2009 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 @ 2800 RPM) has 166 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3996 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1900 kg | 1085 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1840 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
