2003 Mazda Tribute vs. 2012 Volkswagen Passat
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Passat 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 1,997 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Tribute (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 18 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. (104 HP @ 4400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 280 kg more than 2012 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Volkswagen Passat. 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 Volkswagen Passat (250 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Passat will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Tribute.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Tribute | 2012 Volkswagen Passat | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Tribute | Passat |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Diesel |
| Top Speed | 166 km/hour | 198 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1505 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4769 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2712 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 70 L |
