2006 Ford Explorer vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 4,015 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 104 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1803 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than 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, 2006 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 210 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1995 Mazda MX-3 has manual transmission. 1995 Mazda MX-3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Explorer | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1995 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 65 L |
