2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2012 Mitsubishi Colt
To start off, 2012 Mitsubishi Colt 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Mitsubishi Colt (148 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 25 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Mitsubishi Colt should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mitsubishi Colt weights approximately 520 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 Mitsubishi Colt, 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 Mitsubishi Colt (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Mitsubishi Colt will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2012 Mitsubishi Colt | |
| Make | Mazda | Mitsubishi |
| Model | Roadster | Colt |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 123 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 142 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 75.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 82 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.4:1 | 9:01 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1550 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 3640 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1695 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1550 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2500 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 47 L |
