2005 Acura RL vs. 1998 Mazda 626
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 626. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Mazda 626 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 211 more horse power than 1998 Mazda 626. (89 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 1998 Mazda 626. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura RL weights approximately 566 kg more than 1998 Mazda 626. 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 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Mazda 626. (145 Nm). This means 2005 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Mazda 626. 2005 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1998 Mazda 626 has manual transmission. 1998 Mazda 626 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 626 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | RL | 626 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Station Wagon |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 3474 cc | 1840 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 300 HP | 89 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1760 kg | 1194 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4920 mm | 4700 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1460 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2810 mm | 2620 mm |
