2003 Mazda Roadster vs. 2012 Volkswagen T5
To start off, 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 1,896 cc (4 cylinders), 2012 Volkswagen T5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (157 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2012 Volkswagen T5. (104 HP @ 3500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2012 Volkswagen T5. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Volkswagen T5 weights approximately 1210 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 Volkswagen T5, 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 T5 (251 Nm @ 2000 RPM) has 81 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Mazda Roadster | 2012 Volkswagen T5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | T5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1839 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 157 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 83 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1060 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 4900 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1980 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2370 mm | 3010 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 80 L |
