2005 Ford Ranger vs. 2008 Toyota Matrix
To start off, 2008 Toyota Matrix is newer by 3 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 1,794 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Toyota Matrix is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Toyota Matrix (126 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Toyota Matrix should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Toyota Matrix weights approximately 53 kg more than 2005 Ford Ranger. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2008 Toyota Matrix, 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, 2008 Toyota Matrix (165 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (135 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Toyota Matrix will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Ford Ranger | 2008 Toyota Matrix | |
| Make | Ford | Toyota |
| Model | Ranger | Matrix |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1753 cc | 1794 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 126 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4200 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1302 kg | 1355 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 50 L |
