2004 Ford Explorer 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 Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 3,996 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more horse power than 2004 Ford Explorer. (158 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2004 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Explorer weights approximately 567 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3.
Because 2004 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 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, 2004 Ford Explorer (306 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2004 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2004 Ford Explorer has manual transmission. 2004 Ford Explorer will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2004 Ford Explorer | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Explorer | 3 |
Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 3996 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 158 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 306 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 2750 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1950 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4850 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1730 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2639 mm |