2008 Chevrolet Optra vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2008 Chevrolet Optra 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 1,799 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Chevrolet Optra is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (123 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 3 more horse power than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. (120 HP @ 5800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2008 Chevrolet Optra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Chevrolet Optra weights approximately 181 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, 2008 Chevrolet Optra, 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 Optra (165 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 23 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2008 Chevrolet Optra will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Chevrolet Optra | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | Optra | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2008 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1799 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 120 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 165 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81.7 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1211 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2610 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 48 L |
