2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2008 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Mazda 6 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (236 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 24 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 6. (212 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 902 kg more than 2008 Mazda 6. 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 6. 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 (382 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 6. (268 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2008 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 6 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 2968 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 236 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 268 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2082 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2680 mm |
