2006 Ford Fusion vs. 2003 Mazda Tribute

To start off, 2006 Ford Fusion is newer by 3 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 2,967 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Tribute (194 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fusion. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fusion.

Because 2003 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2006 Ford Fusion. 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, 2003 Mazda Tribute (231 Nm @ 4750 RPM) has 28 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fusion. (203 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fusion. 2003 Mazda Tribute has automatic transmission and 2006 Ford Fusion has manual transmission. 2006 Ford Fusion will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Tribute will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2006 Ford Fusion 2003 Mazda Tribute
Make Ford Mazda
Model Fusion Tribute
Year Released 2006 2003
Body Type Sedan SUV
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 2299 cc 2967 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 6 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 160 HP 194 HP
Engine RPM 6500 RPM 6000 RPM
Torque 203 Nm 231 Nm
Torque RPM 4000 RPM 4750 RPM
Drive Type Front 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Width 1570 mm 1810 mm
Vehicle Height 1570 mm 1720 mm