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 (118 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 14 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 1240 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 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 T5 has manual transmission. 2012 Volkswagen T5 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 T5 | |
| Make | Mazda | Volkswagen |
| Model | Roadster | T5 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2012 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 1896 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 118 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Torque | 140 Nm | 251 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 2000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 79.5 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 95.5 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 8 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 2270 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3960 mm | 5300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1910 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2270 mm | 3410 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 48 L | 80 L |
