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 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 1 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ranger.
Because 2006 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Ford Ranger will offer significantly more control. 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 (209 Nm) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
