2003 Mazda Tribute vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (228 HP @ 8200 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 720 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2003 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (211 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Tribute.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Tribute | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2005 |
| Body Type | SUV | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 228 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 211 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 235 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1065 kg |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2840 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 11 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 61 L |
