2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 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 2,000 cc (4 cylinders), 2011 Mazda 3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 148 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Mazda 3 weights approximately 220 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, 2011 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
2003 Mazda Roadster | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Mazda | Mazda |
Model | Roadster | 3 |
Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
Body Type | Convertible | Sedan |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1838 cc | 2000 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
Horse Power | 148 HP | 148 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
Torque | 167 Nm | 183 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1300 kg |
Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4590 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2639 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |