2003 Acura TL vs. 2008 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2008 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura TL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura TL would be higher. At 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura TL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura TL (225 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 117 more horse power than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (108 HP @ 8200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2008 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 2008 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura TL, 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, 2003 Acura TL (294 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda RX-8. (140 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2003 Acura TL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda RX-8.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura TL | 2008 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | TL | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3210 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | V | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 225 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8200 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4700 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4900 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1800 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1370 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2750 mm | 2710 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 61 L |
