1996 Acura NSX vs. 2009 Audi R8

To start off, 2009 Audi R8 is newer by 13 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 4,163 cc (8 cylinders), 2009 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2009 Audi R8 (414 HP @ 7800 RPM) has 143 more horse power than 1996 Acura NSX. (271 HP @ 7300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1996 Acura NSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi R8 weights approximately 195 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 2009 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1996 Acura NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 Audi R8 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, 2009 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Acura NSX. (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2009 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Acura NSX. 2009 Audi R8 has automatic transmission and 1996 Acura NSX has manual transmission. 1996 Acura NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1996 Acura NSX 2009 Audi R8
Make Acura Audi
Model NSX R8
Year Released 1996 2009
Body Type Coupe Coupe
Engine Position Middle Middle
Engine Size 2977 cc 4163 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 271 HP 414 HP
Engine RPM 7300 RPM 7800 RPM
Torque 284 Nm 430 Nm
Torque RPM 5400 RPM 4500 RPM
Engine Bore Size 89.9 mm 84.5 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78 mm 92.8 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 12.5:1
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 275 km/hour 301 km/hour
Drive Type Rear AWD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 2 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 2 doors
Vehicle Weight 1370 kg 1565 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 4440 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1260 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2660 mm