2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 46 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2006 Mazda RX-8 has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Roadster | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1311 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 216 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
