2005 Mazda Tribute vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Mazda Tribute. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Mazda Tribute would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Mazda Tribute (200 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 207 kg more than 2012 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Let's talk about torque, 2005 Mazda Tribute (262 Nm) has 79 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2005 Mazda Tribute has automatic transmission and 2012 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2012 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda Tribute | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | 3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2965 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1507 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1840 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1780 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2680 mm | 2639 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 9.4 L/100km | 7.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.8 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 62 L | 55 L |
