2003 Mazda Tribute vs. 2004 Mazda 3
To start off, 2004 Mazda 3 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda Tribute. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda Tribute would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Mazda 3 (144 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 272 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3.
Because 2003 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2004 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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 Tribute (230 Nm) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (184 Nm). This means 2003 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Tribute | 2004 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | 3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 144 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 230 Nm | 184 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 84.8 mm | 87 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 88 mm | 83 mm |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1495 kg | 1223 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2500 mm | 2760 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 7.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 55 L |
