2005 Ford Explorer vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,016 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2005 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Explorer weights approximately 514 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2005 Ford Explorer is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2007 Mazda RX-8. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Ford Explorer (321 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Explorer | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2007 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4016 cc | 1307 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 321 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 100.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1939 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5240 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3030 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 11.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |
