1988 Honda NSX vs. 2009 Scion tC
To start off, 2009 Scion tC is newer by 21 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 90 more horse power than 2009 Scion tC. (161 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1988 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2009 Scion tC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Scion tC weights approximately 113 kg more than 1988 Honda NSX.
Because 1988 Honda NSX 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 1988 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Scion tC, 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, 1988 Honda NSX (288 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 68 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Scion tC. (220 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1988 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Scion tC.
Compare all specifications:
| 1988 Honda NSX | 2009 Scion tC | |
| Make | Honda | Scion |
| Model | NSX | tC |
| Year Released | 1988 | 2009 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2362 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 251 HP | 161 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6800 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 288 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1216 kg | 1329 kg |
