1998 BMW 317 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 317. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 317 would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 68 more horse power than 1998 BMW 317. (89 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 317. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 BMW 317 weights approximately 295 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1998 BMW 317 (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 20 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1998 BMW 317 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 BMW 317 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | BMW | Mazda |
| Model | 317 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1665 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 89 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 190 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1355 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2730 mm | 2370 mm |
