1976 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 27 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1976 Ford Fiesta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1976 Ford Fiesta would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 66 more horse power than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (52 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1976 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 300 kg more than 1976 Ford Fiesta. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Mazda Roadster 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 2003 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1976 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1976 Ford Fiesta. (80 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1976 Ford Fiesta. 2003 Mazda Roadster has automatic transmission and 1976 Ford Fiesta has manual transmission. 1976 Ford Fiesta will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1976 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1976 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1117 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 52 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 80 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 74 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 65 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 730 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3570 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1570 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2290 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 34 L | 48 L |
