1997 Acura NSX vs. 1998 Saturn SC
To start off, 1998 Saturn SC is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Acura NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura NSX (272 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 172 more horse power than 1998 Saturn SC. (100 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1998 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura NSX weights approximately 325 kg more than 1998 Saturn SC. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 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 1997 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1998 Saturn SC, 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 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 126 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 1997 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Saturn SC. 1998 Saturn SC has automatic transmission and 1997 Acura NSX has manual transmission. 1997 Acura NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1998 Saturn SC will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura NSX | 1998 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Acura | Saturn |
| Model | NSX | SC |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1998 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2610 mm |
