2010 Mazda RX-8 vs. 1999 Acura RL
To start off, 2010 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Acura RL. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Acura RL would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2010 Mazda RX-8 (232 HP @ 8500 RPM) has 27 more horse power than 1999 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2010 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1999 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Acura RL weights approximately 285 kg more than 2010 Mazda RX-8.
Because 2010 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 2010 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Acura RL, 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, 1999 Acura RL (304 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 89 more torque (in Nm) than 2010 Mazda RX-8. (215 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 1999 Acura RL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2010 Mazda RX-8. 1999 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 2010 Mazda RX-8 has manual transmission. 2010 Mazda RX-8 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1999 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2010 Mazda RX-8 | 1999 Acura RL | |
| Make | Mazda | Acura |
| Model | RX-8 | RL |
| Year Released | 2010 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1300 cc | 3472 cc |
| Engine Type | dual-disk rotary | V |
| Horse Power | 232 HP | 205 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8500 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 215 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1675 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4460 mm | 5000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1341 mm | 1440 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2700 mm | 2920 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 64 L | 50 L |
