2004 Honda Element vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2004 Honda Element is newer by 1 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 2,354 cc (4 cylinders), 2004 Honda Element is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2004 Honda Element (160 HP @ 5700 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2004 Honda Element should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2004 Honda Element weights approximately 495 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, 2004 Honda Element, 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, 2004 Honda Element (218 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm). This means 2004 Honda Element will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2004 Honda Element | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | Element | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2004 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Crossover | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2354 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 218 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.1 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 99 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1555 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4310 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1790 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
