2006 Ford Ranger vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 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 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 53 kg more than 2006 Ford Ranger. 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, 2011 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 (367 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 184 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Ford Ranger | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Ford | Mazda |
Model | Ranger | 3 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 367 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1244 kg | 1297 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4660 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 3010 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |