2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Ford F-250
To start off, 2011 Ford F-250 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 6,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ford F-250 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford F-250 (385 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 280 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford F-250 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3.
Because 2011 Ford F-250 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 2011 Ford F-250. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2011 Ford F-250 (548 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 402 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2011 Ford F-250 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 2011 Ford F-250 has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford F-250 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 2011 Ford F-250 | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | F-250 |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Pickup |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 6200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 385 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 548 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 6269 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1966 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3967 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 132 L |
