2003 Mazda Tribute vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 9 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (129 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Audi A3 weights approximately 35 kg more than 2003 Mazda Tribute. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Audi A3. 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, 2012 Audi A3 (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Tribute. 2012 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Tribute has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Tribute will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Tribute | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Audi |
| Model | Tribute | A3 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 129 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 181 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1425 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
