2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2007 Mazda 2
To start off, 2007 Mazda 2 is newer by 4 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 24 more horse power than 2007 Mazda 2. (99 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2007 Mazda 2. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda 2 weights approximately 125 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, 2007 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, 2007 Mazda 2 (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda 2 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2007 Mazda 2 | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | Roadster | 2 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2007 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 99 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 146 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 81.4 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 | 1155 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 |
