2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2012 Chevrolet Nubira
To start off, 2012 Chevrolet Nubira 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 1,838 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (148 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2012 Chevrolet Nubira. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2012 Chevrolet Nubira. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Chevrolet Nubira weights approximately 246 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, 2012 Chevrolet Nubira, 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 2 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Chevrolet Nubira. (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Chevrolet Nubira. 2003 Mazda Roadster has automatic transmission and 2012 Chevrolet Nubira has manual transmission. 2012 Chevrolet Nubira will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2012 Chevrolet Nubira | |
| Make | Mazda | Chevrolet |
| Model | Roadster | Nubira |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1838 cc | 1799 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 120 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 167 Nm | 165 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 81.6 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1080 kg | 1326 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4570 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1460 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 60 L |
