2004 Ford Expedition vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Ford Expedition is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,603 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Expedition is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Expedition (232 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 124 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Expedition should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Expedition weights approximately 947 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Expedition 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 2004 Ford Expedition. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Ford Expedition (395 Nm) has 255 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Expedition will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2004 Ford Expedition has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2004 Ford Expedition will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Expedition | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Expedition | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4603 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 395 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 90 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2367 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1980 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 106 L | 55 L |
