2005 Ford Ranger vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 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 1,758 cc (4 cylinders), 2005 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Ford Ranger weights approximately 30 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 8 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (137 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2009 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 | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1758 cc | 1598 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 137 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 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 | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1212 kg | 1182 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
