2008 Ford Ranger vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Ford Ranger. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Ford Ranger would be higher. At 2,499 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Ford Ranger is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mazda 3 (148 HP) has 7 more horse power than 2008 Ford Ranger. (141 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2008 Ford Ranger.
Because 2008 Ford Ranger is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Ford Ranger will offer significantly more control. 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, 2012 Mazda 3 (360 Nm) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Ford Ranger. (330 Nm). This means 2012 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Ford Ranger.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Ford Ranger | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Ranger | 3 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Pickup | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2499 cc | 2184 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 148 HP |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Diesel |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2990 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
