2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2006 Nissan Maxima
To start off, 2006 Nissan Maxima 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 3,507 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Nissan Maxima is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Nissan Maxima (247 HP @ 5800 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Nissan Maxima should accelerate faster 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, 2006 Nissan Maxima, 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, 2006 Nissan Maxima (347 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Nissan Maxima will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2006 Nissan Maxima | |
| Make | Mazda | Nissan |
| Model | Roadster | Maxima |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3507 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 247 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 347 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 96 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4920 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1830 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2830 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 80 L |
