2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2011 BMW 325
To start off, 2011 BMW 325 is newer by 8 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 2,494 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 BMW 325 (215 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 58 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 BMW 325 weights approximately 615 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 2011 BMW 325 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda Roadster. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 BMW 325 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2011 BMW 325 (250 Nm @ 2750 RPM) has 80 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 BMW 325 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2011 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | Roadster | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 2494 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 215 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 250 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2750 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 78.8 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 11.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4530 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2770 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 63 L |
