2008 Chevrolet HHR vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet HHR 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 2,196 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Chevrolet HHR (150 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (123 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 43 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 Chevrolet HHR, 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 Chevrolet HHR (206 Nm @ 4200 RPM) has 64 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet HHR | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | HHR | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2196 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 150 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 206 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4200 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1073 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4480 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1610 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 48 L |
