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 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 65 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Expedition should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Expedition weights approximately 984 kg more than 2012 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, 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 (395 Nm) has 167 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Expedition will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3.
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 | 4603 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 395 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 8 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2367 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5230 mm | 4506 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2010 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1980 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 12.4 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 106 L | 60 L |
