2001 Acura EL vs. 2007 Mazda RX-8

To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,666 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 108 more horse power than 2001 Acura EL. (124 HP @ 6300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2001 Acura EL.

Because 2007 Mazda RX-8 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Acura EL, 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 61 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Acura EL. (155 Nm @ 4800 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Acura EL.

Compare all specifications:

2001 Acura EL 2007 Mazda RX-8
Make Acura Mazda
Model EL RX-8
Year Released 2001 2007
Body Type Sedan Coupe
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1666 cc 1306 cc
Engine Type in-line dual-disk rotary
Horse Power 124 HP 232 HP
Engine RPM 6300 RPM 8500 RPM
Torque 155 Nm 216 Nm
Torque RPM 4800 RPM 5500 RPM
Drive Type Front Rear
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 5 seats 4 seats
Number of Doors 4 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1180 kg 1180 kg
Vehicle Length 4490 mm 4430 mm
Vehicle Width 1720 mm 1780 mm
Vehicle Height 1450 mm 1350 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2710 mm