2006 Ford Fiesta vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2006 Ford Fiesta 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 1,598 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 42 more horse power than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (81 HP @ 5500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2006 Ford Fiesta. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Ford Fiesta weights approximately 75 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, 2006 Ford Fiesta, 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, 2003 Mazda Roadster (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 14 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Ford Fiesta. (128 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2003 Mazda Roadster will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Ford Fiesta.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Ford Fiesta | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Ford | Mazda |
| Model | Fiesta | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2006 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1388 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 81 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5500 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 128 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 3500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 76 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 76.5 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1105 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3920 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2490 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 45 L | 48 L |
