2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 1998 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Mazda Roadster is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 1,983 cc (4 cylinders), 1998 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. (114 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 1998 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 322 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 1998 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda Roadster. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, both vehicles can yield 170 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 1998 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1983 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 114 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 92.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1382 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 62 L |
