2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1997 Toyota Corolla
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 49 more horse power than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1997 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Toyota Corolla weights approximately 135 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 Toyota Corolla, 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Toyota Corolla. (146 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Toyota Corolla.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1997 Toyota Corolla | |
| Make | Mazda | Toyota |
| Model | Roadster | Corolla |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 81.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4280 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1390 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2470 mm |
