2003 Ford Econovan vs. 2005 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2005 Toyota Matrix is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 1,793 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Toyota Matrix (129 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 39 more horse power than 2003 Ford Econovan. (90 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Econovan weights approximately 175 kg more than 2005 Toyota Matrix.
Because 2003 Ford Econovan is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2003 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 Toyota Matrix, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2005 Toyota Matrix (167 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Econovan. (139 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2005 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Econovan.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Econovan | 2005 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Econovan | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Van | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1793 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 90 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 139 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1295 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4360 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1640 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1870 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2210 mm | 2860 mm |
