2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2011 Lexus RX
To start off, 2011 Lexus RX 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Lexus RX (275 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 118 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Lexus RX should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Lexus RX weights approximately 835 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, 2011 Lexus RX, 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, 2011 Lexus RX (348 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2011 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2011 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Mazda | Lexus |
| Model | Roadster | RX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | SUV |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 275 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 348 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 73 L |
