2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1997 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,984 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. (115 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1997 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 260 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (166 Nm @ 2600 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 1997 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1997 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 115 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 166 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2600 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 10.3:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
