2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2011 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2011 Volkswagen Golf 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 1,839 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 37 more horse power than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. (120 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2011 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Volkswagen Golf weights approximately 230 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 Volkswagen Golf, 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 Volkswagen Golf (200 Nm @ 1500 RPM) has 30 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Volkswagen Golf will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2011 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1400 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 200 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 1290 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4199 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1786 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1480 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
