2006 Chevrolet Malibu vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is newer by 3 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 3,491 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Chevrolet Malibu is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (201 HP @ 5400 RPM) has 44 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu weights approximately 690 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, 2006 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, 2006 Chevrolet Malibu (298 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 128 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2006 Chevrolet Malibu will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Chevrolet Malibu | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Malibu | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3491 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 201 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5400 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 298 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3200 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 94 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84.1 mm | 85 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1750 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4780 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1480 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2860 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
