2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2004 Mazda 2
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 2. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 2 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 131 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 952 kg more than 2004 Mazda 2. 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, 2004 Mazda 2, 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 220 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2004 Mazda 2 has manual transmission. 2004 Mazda 2 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 | 2004 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 2 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3500 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 | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 6.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 45 L |
