2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1984 Pontiac Grand Am would be higher. At 2,966 cc (6 cylinders), 1984 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. (123 HP @ 4900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1984 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am weights approximately 150 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, 1984 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 1984 Pontiac Grand Am (204 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1984 Pontiac Grand Am will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1984 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1984 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Mazda | Pontiac |
| Model | Roadster | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1984 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2966 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4900 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 204 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1210 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4520 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1340 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2630 mm |
