2002 Acura RSX vs. 2005 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura RSX would be higher. At 2,614 cc, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RSX (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 34 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 160 kg more than 2002 Acura RSX.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX, 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, 2005 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm) has 27 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RSX. (193 Nm). This means 2005 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RSX. 2002 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura RSX | 2005 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | RSX | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2614 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 189 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1390 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1780 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
