2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 64 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda 3 weights approximately 338 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 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 2009 Ford Explorer. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Explorer (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM) has 67 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 1970 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 4.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2730 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 11.7 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.1 L/100km | 8.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 55 L |
