1991 Acura NSX vs. 1996 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 1996 Mazda MX-3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1991 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1991 Acura NSX would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 1991 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1991 Acura NSX (271 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 165 more horse power than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1991 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1991 Acura NSX weights approximately 311 kg more than 1996 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1991 Acura 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 1991 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Mazda MX-3, 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, 1991 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 150 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1991 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1991 Acura NSX | 1996 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | NSX | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 1991 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2976 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2460 mm |
