2001 Audi A3 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 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Audi A3 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 (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2001 Audi A3. (101 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2001 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Audi A3 weights approximately 175 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
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 Audi A3, 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 Audi A3 (148 Nm @ 3800 RPM) has 6 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2001 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Audi A3 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 101 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 148 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.1 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 77.4 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1205 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
