2006 Mazda 3 vs. 2012 Ford E-350
To start off, 2012 Ford E-350 is newer by 6 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 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1645 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2012 Ford E-350 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 2012 Ford E-350. 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, 2012 Ford E-350 (474 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 329 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2012 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
2006 Mazda 3 | 2012 Ford E-350 | |
Make | Mazda | Ford |
Model | 3 | E-350 |
Year Released | 2006 | 2012 |
Body Type | Sedan | Van |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1596 cc | 5400 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
Horse Power | 105 HP | 255 HP |
Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Torque | 145 Nm | 474 Nm |
Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2500 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Vehicle Weight | 1185 kg | 2830 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4500 mm | 5504 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2017 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 2111 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3505 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 132 L |