2009 Acura RDX vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Acura RDX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2008 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2008 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 2,297 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Acura RDX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura RDX (237 HP @ 6000 RPM) has 88 more horse power than 2008 Mazda 3. (149 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura RDX should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura RDX weights approximately 544 kg more than 2008 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2009 Acura RDX is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2008 Mazda 3. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 2009 Acura RDX (260 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 78 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Mazda 3. (182 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 2009 Acura RDX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Mazda 3. 2009 Acura RDX has automatic transmission and 2008 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2008 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura RDX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura RDX | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | RDX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2008 |
| Body Type | SUV | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 2297 cc | 1998 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 237 HP | 149 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 260 Nm | 182 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 8.8:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1784 kg | 1240 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4600 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1880 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1660 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 12.4 L/100km | 10.6 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
