2008 Mazda 3 vs. 2011 Ford E-350
To start off, 2011 Ford E-350 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 5,400 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 107 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Ford E-350 weights approximately 1520 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2011 Ford E-350 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 2011 Ford E-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3, 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, 2011 Ford E-350 (474 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 287 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2011 Ford E-350 has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford E-350 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda 3 | 2011 Ford E-350 | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | E-350 |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 5400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 255 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Torque | 187 Nm | 474 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Flex Fuel |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1310 kg | 2830 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5504 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 2017 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 2111 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 3505 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 125 L |
