2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2007 Mazda 3
To start off, 2007 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,947 cc (8 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Ford Explorer (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 775 kg more than 2007 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Ford Explorer will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Ford Explorer (390 Nm @ 3300 RPM) has 202 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda 3. (188 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2007 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 188 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 101.6 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.2 mm | 83.1 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1235 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
