2008 Ford Explorer vs. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2008 Ford Explorer is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 would be higher. At 4,013 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (263 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2008 Ford Explorer. (210 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Explorer.
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, 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Explorer. (344 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Explorer. 2008 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 has manual transmission. 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 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 | 2007 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2007 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4013 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 210 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 344 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.5:1 |
| 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 Length | 5350 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1850 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 11.8 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 11.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 14.7 L/100km | 10.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
