2002 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Mazda 6 is newer by 7 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, 2009 Mazda 6 (272 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2002 Ford Explorer. (212 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2002 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Ford Explorer weights approximately 885 kg more than 2009 Mazda 6.
Because 2002 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 6. 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 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 6. (365 Nm @ 4250 RPM). This means 2002 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 6. 2009 Mazda 6 has automatic transmission and 2002 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2002 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Mazda 6 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 6 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4947 cc | 3726 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 212 HP | 272 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 390 Nm | 365 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3300 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2010 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1850 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2800 mm |
