2008 Acura RDX vs. 1997 Acura EL
To start off, 2008 Acura RDX is newer by 11 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 2,299 cc (4 cylinders), 2008 Acura RDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Acura RDX (240 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 113 more horse power than 1997 Acura EL. (127 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2008 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura EL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Acura RDX weights approximately 371 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 2008 Acura RDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Acura EL. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Acura RDX will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Acura RDX (353 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 208 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura EL. (145 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura EL. 2008 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura EL has manual transmission. 1997 Acura EL will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Acura RDX | 1997 Acura EL | |
| Make | Acura | Acura |
| Model | RDX | EL |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | SUV | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2299 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 240 HP | 127 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 353 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1079 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4478 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1704 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1394 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2619 mm |
