2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Ford Ranger
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,300 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (149 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2001 Ford Ranger. (128 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 3 weights approximately 65 kg more than 2001 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Ford Ranger 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, 2001 Ford Ranger (203 Nm) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (187 Nm). This means 2001 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3. 2001 Ford Ranger has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Ranger will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2001 Ford Ranger | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Ranger |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2300 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 149 HP | 128 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 203 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1720 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1740 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3010 mm |
