2004 Mazda 6 vs. 2012 Ford F-350
To start off, 2012 Ford F-350 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford F-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford F-350 (385 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 266 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (119 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford F-350 should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6.
Because 2012 Ford F-350 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 2012 Ford F-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 6, 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, 2012 Ford F-350 (548 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 380 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (168 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Ford F-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6. 2012 Ford F-350 has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Ford F-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 6 | 2012 Ford F-350 | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 6 | F-350 |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Station Wagon | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1798 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 119 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 168 Nm | 548 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4690 mm | 6269 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 2029 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1961 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 3967 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 132 L |
