2001 Mazda Roadster vs. 2006 Mazda 3
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Roadster would be higher. At 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda Roadster (197 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda 3 weights approximately 245 kg more than 2001 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2001 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 2001 Mazda Roadster. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Mazda 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, 2001 Mazda Roadster (196 Nm @ 6000 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda Roadster | 2006 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Roadster | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 1999 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 187 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2650 mm |
