2001 Mazda Roadster vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 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. Both 2001 Mazda Roadster and 2011 Mazda 3 are equipped with a 2,000 cc engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Mazda Roadster (197 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 235 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, 2011 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 13 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2001 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2001 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Mazda Roadster | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Roadster | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2000 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 196 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1065 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3930 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1750 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1230 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2639 mm |
