2004 Ford Expedition vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Expedition. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Expedition would be higher. At 5,407 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Expedition is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Expedition (260 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 156 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Expedition should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3.
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, 2012 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 (475 Nm) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (145 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Expedition will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2004 Ford Expedition has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Expedition | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5407 cc | 1560 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 260 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 9 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1980 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 106 L | 55 L |
