1990 BMW M3 vs. 1997 Honda NSX
To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 BMW M3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 BMW M3 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (280 HP) has 46 more horse power than 1990 BMW M3. (234 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1990 BMW M3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 110 kg more than 1990 BMW M3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front 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, 1997 Honda NSX (294 Nm) has 54 more torque (in Nm) than 1990 BMW M3. (240 Nm). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1990 BMW M3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1990 BMW M3 | 1997 Honda NSX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | M3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 1990 | 1997 |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2467 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 234 HP | 280 HP |
| Torque | 240 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1260 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4350 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1690 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1380 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2540 mm |
