2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. 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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (330 Nm @ 3250 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer. 2002 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2007 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3250 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2870 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
