2003 Ford Explorer vs. 2013 Mazda SPEED3
To start off, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 is newer by 10 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, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 (259 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 101 more horse power than 2003 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 489 kg more than 2013 Mazda SPEED3.
Because 2003 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2013 Mazda SPEED3. 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, 2013 Mazda SPEED3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Ford Explorer. (305 Nm @ 2750 RPM). This means 2013 Mazda SPEED3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Ford Explorer | 2013 Mazda SPEED3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | SPEED3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2013 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3994 cc | 2261 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 259 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1461 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2640 mm |
