2003 Acura RSX vs. 2001 Mazda Atenza

To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Mazda Atenza. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Mazda Atenza would be higher. At 2,261 cc (4 cylinders), 2001 Mazda Atenza is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura RSX (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) has 94 more horse power than 2001 Mazda Atenza. (103 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 2001 Mazda Atenza. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura RSX weights approximately 236 kg more than 2001 Mazda Atenza. 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, 2001 Mazda Atenza (240 Nm) has 48 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (192 Nm). This means 2001 Mazda Atenza will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 2001 Mazda Atenza has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura RSX has manual transmission. 2003 Acura RSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Mazda Atenza will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2003 Acura RSX 2001 Mazda Atenza
Make Acura Mazda
Model RSX Atenza
Year Released 2003 2001
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1998 cc 2261 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type in-line in-line
Horse Power 197 HP 103 HP
Engine RPM 7400 RPM 4000 RPM
Torque 192 Nm 240 Nm
Engine Bore Size 85.9 mm 87.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 85.9 mm 94 mm
Drive Type Front Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 4 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1266 kg 1030 kg
Vehicle Length 4380 mm 4680 mm
Vehicle Width 1730 mm 1790 mm
Vehicle Height 1410 mm 1440 mm
Wheelbase Size 2580 mm 2680 mm