1995 Acura NSX vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,178 cc (6 cylinders), 1995 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1995 Acura NSX (420 HP @ 8250 RPM) has 312 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (108 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1995 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1995 Acura NSX weights approximately 77 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1995 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 1995 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Mazda 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, 1995 Acura NSX (414 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 274 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (140 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1995 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1995 Acura NSX | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | NSX | 3 |
| Year Released | 1995 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3178 cc | 1498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 420 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 8250 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 414 Nm | 140 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1497 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
