2006 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mazda 6
To start off, 2006 Ford Explorer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 6 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 72 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 6. (138 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1322 kg more than 2004 Mazda 6. 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 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 6. (310 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 6. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 6 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 | 2004 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 6 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 138 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 310 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 92.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99.3 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 18.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Diesel |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1540 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 6.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 64 L |
