2005 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 2 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 3,490 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (200 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 77 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (123 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 478 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu, 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, 2005 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm) has 156 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm). This means 2005 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3490 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1508 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
