2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Ford Explorer (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 6. (118 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 667 kg more than 2003 Mazda 6. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Ford Explorer 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 2008 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 6, 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, 2008 Ford Explorer (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 6. (244 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 6. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 6 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 6 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2003 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1837 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 244 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1410 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4710 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 8.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 64 L |
