2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2004 Mazda 2
To start off, 2004 Mazda 2 is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda Roadster. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda Roadster would be higher. At 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2004 Mazda 2. (79 HP @ 5700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2004 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Mazda 2 weights approximately 95 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, 2004 Mazda 2, 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 (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 18 more torque (in Nm) than 2004 Mazda 2. (124 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2004 Mazda 2.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2004 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Roadster | 2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2004 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1388 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 79 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 124 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 76 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1125 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3930 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 45 L |
