2006 Ford Explorer vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Explorer 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 21 more horse power than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1437 kg more than 2007 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer, 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 Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2007 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2007 Mazda RX-8. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 | 2007 Mazda RX-8 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Explorer | RX-8 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2007 |
Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4015 cc | 1306 cc |
Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 189 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 220 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.0:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1425 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1780 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1350 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 13.8 L/100km | 12.6 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 61 L |