2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Mazda Tribute
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 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 46 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Tribute should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 40 kg more than 2009 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda Tribute is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2009 Mazda 3. 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 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Tribute will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 2003 Mazda Tribute has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 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:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Mazda Tribute | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | Tribute |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2967 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 194 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 231 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4750 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1590 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.7 L/100km | 12.8 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 61 L |
