2009 Dodge Dakota vs. 2003 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2009 Dodge Dakota is newer by 6 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 3,701 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Dodge Dakota is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Dodge Dakota (207 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 85 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Dodge Dakota should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Tribute.
Because 2009 Dodge Dakota 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 2009 Dodge Dakota. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute, 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, 2009 Dodge Dakota (236 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Dodge Dakota will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Tribute.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Dodge Dakota | 2003 Mazda Tribute | |
| Make | Dodge | Mazda |
| Model | Dakota | Tribute |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Pickup | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3701 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 2 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 207 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 236 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 5560 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1750 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 3340 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 83 L | 57 L |
