2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2006 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2006 Volkswagen Golf 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 83 more horse power than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (74 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 129 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, 2006 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 44 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Volkswagen Golf. (126 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Volkswagen Golf.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2006 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1389 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 74 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 126 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 76.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 75.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1189 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4400 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1490 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
