2005 Acura RL vs. 1998 Mazda 323
To start off, 2005 Acura RL is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 3,474 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Acura RL (300 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 212 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 323. (88 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura RL weights approximately 685 kg more than 1998 Mazda 323. 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, 2005 Acura RL (353 Nm) has 220 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 323. (133 Nm). This means 2005 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 323. 2005 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 323 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 323 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2005 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura RL | 1998 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | RL | 323 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 88 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 133 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 89 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 93 mm | 78.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 9.4:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1075 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2620 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 73 L | 55 L |
