2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 2,500 cc (5 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen Jetta is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta (170 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 Volkswagen Jetta should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta weights approximately 370 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 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 Volkswagen Jetta (240 Nm @ 4250 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen Jetta will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2003 Mazda Roadster has automatic transmission and 2012 Volkswagen Jetta has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen Jetta 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 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | Jetta |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 2500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 5 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 170 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 240 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 4250 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1400 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4557 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1781 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1504 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 2578 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 55 L |
