2004 Ford Explorer vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 69 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (141 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 488 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (360 Nm) has 35 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Ford Explorer. (325 Nm). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Explorer | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2009 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 141 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 325 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 100 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 16.7:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1973 kg | 1485 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4420 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
