2003 Acura RSX vs. 2002 Acura RL
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RL (225 HP) has 65 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (160 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura RL weights approximately 453 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX. 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, 2002 Acura RL (313 Nm) has 122 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm). This means 2002 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 2002 Acura RL 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. 2002 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 2002 Acura RL | |
| Make | Acura | Acura |
| Model | RSX | RL |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 225 HP |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 313 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86 mm | 91 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
