2009 Kia Sportage vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2009 Kia Sportage 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 2,656 cc (6 cylinders), 2009 Kia Sportage is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Kia Sportage (174 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 51 more horse power than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (123 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Kia Sportage should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda Roadster. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Kia Sportage weights approximately 1053 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 Kia Sportage, 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 Kia Sportage (241 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 99 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (142 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2009 Kia Sportage will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2009 Kia Sportage has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda Roadster has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda Roadster will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Kia Sportage will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Kia Sportage | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Kia | Mazda |
| Model | Sportage | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | SUV | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2656 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 174 HP | 123 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 241 Nm | 142 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 17.7:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 2083 kg | 1030 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4360 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1700 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2640 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 48 L |
