2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2011 Mazda CX-9
To start off, 2011 Mazda CX-9 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2009 Ford Explorer. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2009 Ford Explorer would be higher. At 4,009 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda CX-9 (273 HP @ 6250 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 2009 Ford Explorer. (207 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda CX-9 should accelerate faster than 2009 Ford Explorer. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda CX-9 weights approximately 992 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2011 Mazda CX-9, 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 Mazda CX-9 (366 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 112 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Ford Explorer. (254 Nm @ 3700 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda CX-9 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2011 Mazda CX-9 | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | CX-9 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2011 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4009 cc | 3700 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 273 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6250 RPM |
| Torque | 254 Nm | 366 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3700 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 7 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 972 kg | 1964 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5350 mm | 5085 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1935 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1727 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3320 mm | 2875 mm |
| Fuel Consumption City | 16.8 L/100km | 13.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 76 L |
