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 1,966 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (148 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 10 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 465 kg more than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Mazda Roadster. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 153 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (167 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 | 1966 cc | 1838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 83 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 85 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1545 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
