1984 Ford Orion vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Ford Orion. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Ford Orion 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) has 40 more horse power than 1984 Ford Orion. (78 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1984 Ford Orion. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Mazda Roadster weights approximately 124 kg more than 1984 Ford Orion. 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, 1984 Ford Orion, 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 12 more torque (in Nm) than 1984 Ford Orion. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1984 Ford Orion.
Compare all specifications:
| 1984 Ford Orion | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Orion | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1984 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1597 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 78 HP | 118 HP |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 80 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 79.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 906 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1650 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2410 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 87 L | 48 L |
