If I hadn't read differently, I'd have said the two cars share general architecture. But once again the Jaguar was
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| While each automaker shrouds their engine with stylish plastic covers, both the Jaguar and Mazda feature an almost identical version of Ford's 3.0-liter V6. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
initially derived from the front-drive first-generation Ford Mondeo (Contour) and the Mazda6 is all Mazda, at least when it comes to the chassis. The Mazda6 "platform" will be used in upcoming Ford products, however, including the yet to be named Taurus replacement (previously called the Futura before Ford realized it didn't have rights to the name anymore) and Lincoln Zephyr. Look under the hood and the similarities between the two cars are even more similar. While each automaker shrouds their engine with stylish plastic covers (Jaguar wins out in this comparison), both feature an almost identical version of Ford's 3.0-liter V6. Not the same 150 horsepower mule as found in the base Taurus, but even more sophisticated than the 24-valve, dual overhead cam iteration as found in the Taurus SEL Premium. There it makes 200 horsepower and 200 lb-ft of torque, while due to Mazda's care and attention it achieves a much more potent 220 horsepower, albeit at the expense of 8 lb-ft of torque, the final tally being 192. Jaguar ekes out an addition 7 horsepower over the Mazda iteration, for a total of 227, plus it ups torque by 10 lb-ft over the
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| Jaguar has done a good job of isolating engine noise and harshness in the cabin. (Photo: Shawn Pisio, Canadian Auto Press) |
Taurus, to 210 lb-ft (figure taken from Jaguar website which is slightly different than the 206 lb-ft initially stated in Jaguar's press material), by adding continuously variable valve timing, a three-stage variable induction manifold, 32-bit microprocessor and electronic throttle control. The Jag 3.0-liter develops 80 percent of its torque at 1,500 rpm and 90 percent at only 2,500 rpm, making it quite flexible under most conditions. The difference can be felt under full acceleration, and especially so during passing maneuvers. Also, while the 3.0-liter Ford-derived powerplant isn't BMW-smooth and quiet, Jaguar has done a good job of isolating engine noise and harshness in the cabin.
