2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata vs. 2002 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Mazda Tribute. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Mazda Tribute would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (166 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 36 more horse power than 2002 Mazda Tribute. (130 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2002 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 96 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2002 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Mazda Tribute. (181 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Mazda Tribute.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | 2002 Mazda Tribute | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | MX-5 Miata | Tribute |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 166 HP | 130 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 181 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1329 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4000 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1250 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2340 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 50 L |
