2008 Audi A3 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 5 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 1,981 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Audi A3 (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) has 43 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (157 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 215 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, 2008 Audi A3, 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, 2008 Audi A3 (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (170 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | A3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1981 cc | 1839 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 170 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1275 kg | 1060 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2370 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
