2009 Ford E-350 vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Ford E-350 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2006 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2006 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 5,406 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford E-350 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford E-350 (255 HP @ 4500 RPM) has 150 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford E-350 should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 219 kg more than 2009 Ford E-350.
Because 2009 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 2009 Ford E-350. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 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, 2009 Ford E-350 (475 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 330 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Ford E-350 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford E-350 | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | E-350 | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Van | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 5406 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 255 HP | 105 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 475 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 12 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1185 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5390 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1790 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 2120 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3510 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 132 L | 55 L |
