2003 Mazda 3 vs. 2005 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2005 Mazda Tribute is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda 3 (160 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 31 more horse power than 2005 Mazda Tribute. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 185 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3.
Because 2005 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, 2005 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, 2003 Mazda 3 (195 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda Tribute. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda Tribute.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda 3 | 2005 Mazda Tribute | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | Tribute |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 129 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 195 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 84.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 88 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1240 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
