1996 Acura NSX vs. 2006 Audi A3
To start off, 2006 Audi A3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2006 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura NSX (271 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 21 more horse power than 2006 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2006 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Audi A3 weights approximately 510 kg more than 1996 Acura NSX.
Because 2006 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Acura NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2006 Audi A3 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, 2006 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 2800 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura NSX. (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2006 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura NSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Acura NSX | 2006 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Acura | Audi |
| Model | NSX | A3 |
| Year Released | 1996 | 2006 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 271 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 2800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 89.9 mm | 84.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 95.9 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 11.3:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1880 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1960 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2580 mm |
