2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,994 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 621 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Ford Explorer | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Explorer | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3994 cc | 1999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 305 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1329 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4510 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |