2005 Ford Ranger vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 1,999 cc, 2006 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 3 (150 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger.
Because 2005 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 2005 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2006 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ranger | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1758 cc | 1999 cc |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 150 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
