2001 Ford Explorer vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 5,000 cc (8 cylinders), 2001 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Ford Explorer (153 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 3 weights approximately 47 kg more than 2001 Ford Explorer.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 Explorer (305 Nm) has 159 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (146 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3. 2001 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Ford Explorer | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5000 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 153 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4790 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
