2004 Ford Ranger vs. 2010 Mazda 3
To start off, 2010 Mazda 3 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,983 cc (6 cylinders), 2004 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Ford Ranger weights approximately 341 kg more than 2010 Mazda 3.
Because 2004 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2010 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 Ranger (251 Nm) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2004 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Ford Ranger | 2010 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2983 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 251 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1642 kg | 1301 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5130 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1650 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3200 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 10.7 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 13.1 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 74 L | 55 L |
