2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2012 BMW 325
To start off, 2012 BMW 325 is newer by 9 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 1,995 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 BMW 325 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW 325 (217 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 60 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW 325 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2012 BMW 325 (450 Nm @ 2500 RPM) has 280 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 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 | 2012 BMW 325 | |
| Make | Mazda | BMW |
| Model | Roadster | 325 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1995 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 217 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 4400 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 450 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 84 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4624 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1811 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1384 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 2810 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 57 L |
