2003 Acura RSX vs. 2010 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura RSX would be higher. At 1,998 cc (4 cylinders), 2003 Acura RSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (212 HP @ 7500 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2010 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 189 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.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2010 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 2010 Mazda RX-8 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. 2010 Mazda RX-8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 2010 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | RSX | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2010 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 1300 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 212 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7500 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 215 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1222 kg | 1411 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4460 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1341 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2700 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 64 L |
