2006 Ford Ranger vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 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 2,498 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2013 Mazda 3 (155 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 47 more horse power than 2006 Ford Ranger. (108 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2013 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 412 kg more than 2013 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, 2013 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 (257 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 57 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (200 Nm @ 4100 RPM). This means 2006 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Ranger | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2498 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 155 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4100 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 19.8:1 | 12.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1715 kg | 1303 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4670 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
