2006 Ford E-350 vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Ford E-350 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 5,408 cc (8 cylinders), 2006 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 151 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1348 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Ford E-350 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 2006 Ford E-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 327 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford E-350 | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | E-350 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5408 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2488 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 2020 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
