2009 Acura TSX vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Acura TSX is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2003 Mazda 3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2003 Mazda 3 would be higher. At 1,999 cc (4 cylinders), 2009 Acura TSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Acura TSX (198 HP @ 4400 RPM) has 98 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (100 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2009 Acura TSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Acura TSX weights approximately 592 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are front wheel drive (FWD). Which offers better traction when its slippery than rear wheel drive vehicles. 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 TSX (170 Nm @ 4300 RPM) has 25 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2009 Acura TSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3. 2009 Acura TSX has automatic transmission and 2003 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2003 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Acura TSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Acura TSX | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | TSX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2009 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 1600 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 198 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4400 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 170 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 86 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.1 mm | 83.6 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.0:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1852 kg | 1260 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4730 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1850 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1450 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2710 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Consumption Highway | 8.6 L/100km | 6 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption City | 11.9 L/100km | 9.3 L/100km |
| Fuel Consumption Overall | 10.4 L/100km | 7.2 L/100km |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
