2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco
To start off, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco is newer by 6 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 1,984 cc, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco (207 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco weights approximately 238 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, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco, 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, 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco (280 Nm @ 1700 RPM) has 110 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2009 Volkswagen Scirocco | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Scirocco |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1984 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 207 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1298 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4256 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1404 mm |
