1996 Audi A3 vs. 1999 Honda NSX
To start off, 1999 Honda NSX is newer by 3 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 3,177 cc (6 cylinders), 1999 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Honda NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 125 more horse power than 1996 Audi A3. (151 HP @ 5700 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1999 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Honda NSX weights approximately 320 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 1999 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 1999 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, 1999 Honda NSX (304 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 94 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Audi A3. (210 Nm @ 1750 RPM). This means 1999 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 | 1999 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1781 cc | 3177 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 151 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5700 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 210 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 86.4 mm | 78 mm |
| Top Speed | 217 km/hour | 274 km/hour |
| 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 | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4160 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1760 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2520 mm | 2630 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 54 L | 70 L |
