1996 BMW Z3 vs. 1988 Honda NSX
To start off, 1996 BMW Z3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Honda NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1988 Honda NSX (251 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 110 more horse power than 1996 BMW Z3. (141 HP @ 4800 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1988 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1996 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 BMW Z3 weights approximately 414 kg more than 1988 Honda NSX.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 Honda NSX (288 Nm) has 108 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 BMW Z3. (180 Nm). This means 1988 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1996 BMW Z3 | 1988 Honda NSX | |
| Make | BMW | Honda |
| Model | Z3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 1996 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Convertible | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1897 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Horse Power | 141 HP | 251 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4800 RPM | 6800 RPM |
| Torque | 180 Nm | 288 Nm |
| Top Speed | 186 km/hour | 249 km/hour |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1630 kg | 1216 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4030 mm | 4320 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1810 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1290 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2450 mm | 2510 mm |
