2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2006 Mazda 6
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda 6 (215 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 5 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 6 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Ford Explorer weights approximately 957 kg more than 2006 Mazda 6.
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, 2006 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 74 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 6. (270 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Explorer | 2006 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 6 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2006 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2964 cc |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2077 kg | 1120 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4750 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1450 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2680 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 8.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 12.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 10.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 68 L |
