2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Ford Explorer 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 4,605 cc (8 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (239 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 135 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 158 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.
Let's talk about torque, 2004 Ford Explorer (382 Nm) has 234 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4605 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 239 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 382 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1298 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1820 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2900 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
