2006 Ford Ranger vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Ford Ranger is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,789 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (104 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (86 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 80 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
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, 2004 Mazda 3, 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, 2004 Mazda 3 (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 12 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Ranger. (136 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2004 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Ford Ranger | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Ranger | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1789 cc | 1596 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 86 HP | 104 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 136 Nm | 148 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 | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1220 kg | 1140 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |