1995 Mazda MX-3 vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 1995 Mazda MX-3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (106 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Smart Roadster. (81 HP @ 5250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Smart Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Mazda MX-3 weights approximately 174 kg more than 2003 Smart Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2003 Smart 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 Smart Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1995 Mazda MX-3 (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Smart Roadster. (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM). This means 1995 Mazda MX-3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Smart Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Mazda MX-3 | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | MX-3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 106 HP | 81 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 5250 RPM |
| Torque | 134 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3600 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1059 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4230 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1320 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2460 mm | 2370 mm |
