2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 6 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 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 759 kg more than 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 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, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 59 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Ford Explorer. (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3070 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 9.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 13.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
