2005 Mazda 3 vs. 1996 Acura RL
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 45 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (160 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura RL weights approximately 422 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. 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, 1996 Acura RL (304 Nm) has 101 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (203 Nm). This means 1996 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Mazda 3 | 1996 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | 3 | RL |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2260 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 | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 203 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 87 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 94 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.7:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1253 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4490 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
