2006 Ford Ranger vs. 1996 Mazda RX-01
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Mazda RX-01. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Mazda RX-01 would be higher. At 2,615 cc, 1996 Mazda RX-01 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (217 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 131 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 4200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 1762 kg more than 1996 Mazda RX-01.
Because 2006 Ford Ranger 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 Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda RX-01, 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, 1996 Mazda RX-01 (220 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Ranger. (174 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 1996 Mazda RX-01 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 1996 Mazda RX-01 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | RX-01 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2615 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4200 RPM | 8500 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 21.6:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Vehicle Weight | 2862 kg | 1100 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2350 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
