2007 Ford Ranger vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2007 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2007 Ford Ranger. (108 HP @ 3500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2007 Ford Ranger. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Ford Ranger weights approximately 324 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3.
Because 2007 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 2007 Ford Ranger. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2007 Ford Ranger (257 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2007 Ford Ranger will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Ford Ranger | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2007 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 3500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 257 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1656 kg | 1332 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4990 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1760 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 11.8 L/100km | 8.9 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 80 L | 55 L |
