2009 Chevrolet HHR vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2009 Chevrolet HHR is newer by 6 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 2,399 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Chevrolet HHR is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (168 HP @ 6200 RPM) has 50 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (118 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Chevrolet HHR should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Chevrolet HHR weights approximately 440 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, 2009 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, 2009 Chevrolet HHR (222 Nm @ 4800 RPM) has 82 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (140 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Chevrolet HHR will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Chevrolet HHR | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Chevrolet | Mazda |
| Model | HHR | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2399 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 168 HP | 118 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 222 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4800 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 88 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 98 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1470 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 3380 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 |
