1996 Toyota Corolla vs. 2003 Acura RL
To start off, 2003 Acura RL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Toyota Corolla. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Toyota Corolla would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RL (225 HP) has 120 more horse power than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (105 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1996 Toyota Corolla. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RL weights approximately 585 kg more than 1996 Toyota Corolla. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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, 2003 Acura RL (313 Nm) has 178 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Toyota Corolla. (135 Nm). This means 2003 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Toyota Corolla. 2003 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1996 Toyota Corolla has manual transmission. 1996 Toyota Corolla will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Toyota Corolla | 2003 Acura RL | |
| Make | Toyota | Acura |
| Model | Corolla | RL |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1587 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 135 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1090 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4280 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1390 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2470 mm | 2920 mm |
