2008 Mazda Tribute vs. 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda Tribute. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda Tribute would be higher. At 2,965 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Mazda Tribute is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda Tribute (200 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 33 more horse power than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (167 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 528 kg more than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2008 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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 Tribute (262 Nm @ 4850 RPM) has 72 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata. (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Mazda Tribute | 2012 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2012 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| 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 | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 262 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4850 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1653 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 3995 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1770 mm | 1245 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2630 mm | 2329 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
