2006 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 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 43 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Explorer weights approximately 1472 kg more than 2011 Mazda 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 116 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2006 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 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 | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Explorer | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 4015 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 210 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 344 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Front | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 7 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1390 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1860 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.2 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
Fuel Consumption City | 15.7 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 60 L |