2000 Acura RL vs. 1997 Mazda RX-7
To start off, 2000 Acura RL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Mazda RX-7. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Mazda RX-7 would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2000 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2000 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 8 more horse power than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (197 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2000 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1997 Mazda RX-7. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2000 Acura RL weights approximately 365 kg more than 1997 Mazda RX-7. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Mazda RX-7. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2000 Acura RL, 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, 2000 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 33 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Mazda RX-7. (271 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 2000 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Mazda RX-7. 2000 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1997 Mazda RX-7 has manual transmission. 1997 Mazda RX-7 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2000 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2000 Acura RL | 1997 Mazda RX-7 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | RL | RX-7 |
| Year Released | 2000 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 2616 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 197 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 271 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1310 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4300 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1240 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2430 mm |
