2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 8 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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 466 kg more than 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. 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, 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (379 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2011 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 379 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 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 | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1484 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4511 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1461 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |
