2007 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2007 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura EL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura EL would be higher. At 1,600 cc (4 cylinders), 1997 Acura EL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 105 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2007 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2007 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 101 kg more than 1997 Acura EL. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2007 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 2007 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1997 Acura EL, 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, 2007 Mazda RX-8 (216 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2007 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL.
Compare all specifications:
| 2007 Mazda RX-8 | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | RX-8 | EL |
| Year Released | 2007 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1306 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | in-line |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 216 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1180 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1780 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1350 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2619 mm |
