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 2,184 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 104 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Ranger weights approximately 1728 kg more than 2009 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, 2009 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, 2006 Ford Ranger (174 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 29 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 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 | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2184 cc | 1598 cc |
| Horse Power | 104 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 174 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.6:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2856 kg | 1128 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1700 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 15.7 L/100km | 13.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
