2009 Mazda 3 vs. 2003 Mazda Roadster
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 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 1,838 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Mazda Roadster is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Mazda Roadster (148 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 40 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Mazda Roadster should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 180 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, 2009 Mazda 3, 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 Mazda 3 (240 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 73 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda Roadster. (167 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda Roadster. 2003 Mazda Roadster has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Mazda Roadster will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 2003 Mazda Roadster | |
| Make | Mazda | Mazda |
| Model | 3 | Roadster |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1560 cc | 1838 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 108 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 167 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.3:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 3960 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1690 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2270 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 48 L |
