1998 Mazda RX-7 vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Mazda RX-7 (280 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 2002 Acura CL. (260 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Mazda RX-7 should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 310 kg more than 1998 Mazda RX-7.
Because 1998 Mazda RX-7 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 1998 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura CL, 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, both vehicles can yield 315 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2002 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Mazda RX-7 | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | RX-7 | CL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2616 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 315 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1270 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1240 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2430 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 76 L | 65 L |
