2000 Mazda 323 vs. 2003 Smart Roadster
To start off, 2003 Smart Roadster is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2000 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2000 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,324 cc (4 cylinders), 2000 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Smart Roadster (81 HP) has 7 more horse power than 2000 Mazda 323. (74 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Smart Roadster should accelerate faster than 2000 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Mazda 323 weights approximately 262 kg more than 2003 Smart Roadster.
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, 2000 Mazda 323, 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 Smart Roadster (110 Nm @ 2250 RPM) has 1 more torque (in Nm) than 2000 Mazda 323. (109 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Smart Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2000 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Mazda 323 | 2003 Smart Roadster | |
| Make | Mazda | Smart |
| Model | 323 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2000 | 2003 |
| Engine Position | Front | Rear |
| Engine Size | 1324 cc | 698 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 81 HP |
| Torque | 109 Nm | 110 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2250 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 71.1 mm | 66.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 67 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1147 kg | 885 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1710 mm | 1620 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1420 mm | 1200 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2850 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 8.5 L/100km | 5.1 L/100km |
