2005 Mazda RX-8 vs. 2003 Acura CL
To start off, 2005 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Acura CL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Acura CL would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura CL (260 HP @ 6900 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (189 HP @ 7000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda RX-8. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura CL weights approximately 224 kg more than 2005 Mazda RX-8. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Acura CL, 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 CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 95 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda RX-8. (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM). This means 2003 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda RX-8. 2003 Acura CL has automatic transmission and 2005 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2005 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
2005 Mazda RX-8 | 2003 Acura CL | |
Make | Mazda | Acura |
Model | RX-8 | CL |
Year Released | 2005 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1308 cc | 3179 cc |
Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
Horse Power | 189 HP | 260 HP |
Engine RPM | 7000 RPM | 6900 RPM |
Torque | 220 Nm | 315 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.8:1 |
Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1356 kg | 1580 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4440 mm | 4890 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1800 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1420 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 61 L | 65 L |