2009 Mazda 3 vs. 1998 Acura RL
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura RL (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) has 57 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura RL should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura RL weights approximately 125 kg more than 2009 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, 1998 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Mazda 3. (183 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Mazda 3. 1998 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2009 Mazda 3 has manual transmission. 2009 Mazda 3 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Mazda 3 | 1998 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | 3 | RL |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 148 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 183 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 87.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 83.1 mm | 91 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1550 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4510 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1470 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2650 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 50 L |
