2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2005 Mazda 6
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda 6. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda 6 would be higher. At 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 149 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 6. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 6. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda 6 weights approximately 409 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, 2005 Mazda 6, 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 (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 246 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 6. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 6.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2005 Mazda 6 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | 6 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 143 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1375 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4690 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 8.5 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 64 L |
