2004 Mazda 3 vs. 2006 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2006 Mazda Tribute is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2004 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2004 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,260 cc, 2006 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda Tribute (153 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 54 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 3. (99 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 43 kg more than 2004 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda Tribute is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda Tribute. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2004 Mazda 3, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. 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, 2006 Mazda Tribute (206 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Mazda 3 | 2006 Mazda Tribute | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | Tribute |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2260 cc |
| Horse Power | 99 HP | 153 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 145 Nm | 206 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1086 kg | 1129 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1840 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.2 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 62 L |
