2005 Mazda AZ vs. 2003 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2005 Mazda AZ is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,014 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5250 RPM) has 147 more horse power than 2005 Mazda AZ. (63 HP @ 6250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda AZ. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1179 kg more than 2005 Mazda AZ. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are four wheel drive (4WD) - it offers better handling, traction, and control in all driving conditions compared with front wheel drive or rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Ford Explorer (335 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 229 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda AZ. (106 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda AZ. 2003 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda AZ has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda AZ will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda AZ | 2003 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | AZ | Explorer |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 656 cc | 4014 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 3 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 63 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6250 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 106 Nm | 335 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 68 mm | 100.4 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 60.4 mm | 84.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.4:1 | 9.7:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 760 kg | 1939 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3400 mm | 5240 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1480 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1790 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2260 mm | 3490 mm |
