2003 Mazda Tribute vs. 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata
To start off, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata is newer by 5 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 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 44 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (122 HP @ 5300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Tribute. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Tribute weights approximately 456 kg more than 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata.
Because 2003 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, 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, 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata (190 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 15 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Tribute. (175 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Tribute.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Tribute | 2008 Mazda MX-5 Miata | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Tribute | MX-5 Miata |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1997 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 122 HP | 166 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5300 RPM | 6700 RPM |
| Torque | 175 Nm | 190 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1785 kg | 1329 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1720 mm | 1250 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2340 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 9.7 L/100km | 9.1 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 57 L | 48 L |
