2005 Ford Ranger vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,500 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (167 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 81 more horse power than 2005 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 108 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, 2012 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 58 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Ford Ranger. (170 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2497 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1383 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 60 L |
