1988 Honda NSX vs. 2001 Honda Z
To start off, 2001 Honda Z is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Honda NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Honda NSX (251 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 200 more horse power than 2001 Honda Z. (51 HP @ 7000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2001 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Honda NSX weights approximately 256 kg more than 2001 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 Honda Z is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1988 Honda NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Honda Z 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, 1988 Honda NSX (288 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 227 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Honda Z. (61 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Honda Z. 2001 Honda Z has automatic transmission and 1988 Honda NSX has manual transmission. 1988 Honda NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Honda Z will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Honda NSX | 2001 Honda Z | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | NSX | Z |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 656 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 3 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 51 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 61 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90 mm | 66 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 64 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1216 kg | 960 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4320 mm | 3410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1810 mm | 1490 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1680 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2510 mm | 2370 mm |
