2011 Mazda 3 vs. 2001 Ford Econovan
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Ford Econovan. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Ford Econovan would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Mazda 3 (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2001 Ford Econovan. (96 HP @ 4800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2011 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2001 Ford Econovan. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Ford Econovan weights approximately 148 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3.
Because 2001 Ford Econovan 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 2001 Ford Econovan. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Ford Econovan. (155 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Ford Econovan. 2001 Ford Econovan has automatic transmission and 2011 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2011 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Ford Econovan will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2011 Mazda 3 | 2001 Ford Econovan | |
| Make | Mazda | Ford |
| Model | 3 | Econovan |
| Year Released | 2011 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Van |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1996 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 96 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1297 kg | 1445 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4590 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1755 mm | 1640 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1471 mm | 1870 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2639 mm | 2210 mm |
