2002 Mazda Tribute vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda Tribute. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda Tribute would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2002 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Mazda Tribute (130 HP @ 5500 RPM) has 26 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 285 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Mazda Tribute will offer significantly more control. 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, 2002 Mazda Tribute (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (148 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Mazda Tribute | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 130 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 148 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1140 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
