2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1997 Mazda 323
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 1,995 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Mazda 323 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 15 more horse power than 1997 Mazda 323. (142 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Mazda 323 weights approximately 155 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, 1997 Mazda 323, 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, 1997 Mazda 323 (180 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 10 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1997 Mazda 323 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1997 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Roadster | 323 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 142 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 180 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1215 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4250 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2620 mm |
