2009 Ford Explorer vs. 2003 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2009 Ford Explorer 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 4,606 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Ford Explorer (292 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 170 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Ford Explorer should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 459 kg more than 2009 Ford Explorer.
Because 2009 Ford Explorer 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 Ford Explorer. 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 Ford Explorer (427 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 252 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Tribute. 2009 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Tribute has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Tribute will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Ford Explorer | 2003 Mazda Tribute | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Explorer | Tribute |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 4606 cc | 1989 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 8 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 3 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 292 HP | 122 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 427 Nm | 175 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 966 kg | 1425 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1830 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2890 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 7.3 L/100km | 9.4 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 85 L | 57 L |
