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 1,894 cc (4 cylinders), 2006 Volkswagen Golf is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (128 HP @ 4000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Volkswagen Golf should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 324 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 2006 Volkswagen Golf (310 Nm @ 1900 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2006 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2003 Mazda Roadster has automatic transmission and 2006 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 2006 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
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 | 1598 cc | 1894 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 118 HP | 128 HP |
Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Torque | 140 Nm | 310 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 1900 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1354 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4400 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1740 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1490 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2520 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |