2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2012 Buick LaCrosse

To start off, 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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 2,400 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Buick LaCrosse is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (182 HP @ 6700 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Buick LaCrosse should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Buick LaCrosse weights approximately 680 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse, 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, 2012 Buick LaCrosse (233 Nm @ 4900 RPM) has 63 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Buick LaCrosse will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2012 Buick LaCrosse 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. 2012 Buick LaCrosse will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Mazda Roadster 2012 Buick LaCrosse
Make Mazda Buick
Model Roadster LaCrosse
Year Released 2003 2012
Body Type Convertible Sedan
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1839 cc 2400 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 157 HP 182 HP
Engine RPM 7000 RPM 6700 RPM
Torque 170 Nm 233 Nm
Torque RPM 5500 RPM 4900 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual 6-speed shiftable automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1060 kg 1740 kg
Vehicle Length 3960 mm 5001 mm
Vehicle Width 1690 mm 1857 mm
Vehicle Height 1240 mm 1504 mm
Wheelbase Size 2370 mm 2837 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 48 L 59 L


 

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