2001 Ford Econovan vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 1,996 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Econovan is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (96 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 305 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2001 Ford Econovan (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 7 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2001 Ford Econovan will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Econovan | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Econovan | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1996 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 96 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 155 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 1445 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2610 mm |
