1996 Acura NSX vs. 2008 Mazda 3
To start off, 2008 Mazda 3 is newer by 12 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mazda 3 (282 HP @ 5300 RPM) has 11 more horse power than 1996 Acura NSX. (271 HP @ 7300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mazda 3 should accelerate faster than 1996 Acura NSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mazda 3 weights approximately 115 kg more than 1996 Acura NSX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 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, 2008 Mazda 3 (576 Nm @ 4400 RPM) has 292 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura NSX. (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura NSX.
Compare all specifications:
1996 Acura NSX | 2008 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Acura | Mazda |
Model | NSX | 3 |
Year Released | 1996 | 2008 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2261 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Horse Power | 271 HP | 282 HP |
Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5300 RPM |
Torque | 284 Nm | 576 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4400 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1485 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4440 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |