1996 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Honda NSX
To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Audi A3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Audi A3 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (280 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 129 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 230 kg more than 1996 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda 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 1997 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1996 Audi A3, 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, 1997 Honda NSX (294 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 84 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 Audi A3 | 1997 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1140 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
