2006 Ford Ranger vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Mazda 3 (154 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (143 HP @ 5250 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 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 2009 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 @ 3750 RPM) has 5 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (204 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 2260 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 143 HP | 154 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5250 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 209 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3750 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.4 mm | 87.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 94 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4820 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2840 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 59 L | 55 L |
