2006 Ford Ranger vs. 2003 Mazda 2
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 2 would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Ford Ranger (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 12 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 2. (74 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 170 kg more than 2003 Mazda 2. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2003 Mazda 2, 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 Ranger (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 2. (110 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 2003 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 2 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1241 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 86 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 136 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1050 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 45 L |
