2001 Acura RSX vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Acura RSX would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura RSX (158 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 35 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (123 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RSX weights approximately 192 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 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, 2001 Acura RSX, 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, 2001 Acura RSX (192 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 50 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Acura RSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RSX | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | RSX | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 158 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 48 L |
