2006 Mazda 3 vs. 1999 Acura RL
To start off, 2006 Mazda 3 is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 100 more horse power than 2006 Mazda 3. (105 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2006 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura RL weights approximately 555 kg more than 2006 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda 3 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 2006 Mazda 3. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Acura RL, 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, 1999 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 158 more torque (in Nm) than 2006 Mazda 3. (146 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1999 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2006 Mazda 3. 1999 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2006 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2006 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2006 Mazda 3 | 1999 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | 3 | RL |
| Year Released | 2006 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1598 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 105 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 146 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.6 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline - Premium | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1120 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4710 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1490 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
