1997 Acura NSX vs. 1999 BMW 318
To start off, 1999 BMW 318 is newer by 2 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 80 more horse power than 1999 BMW 318. (192 HP @ 7250 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1999 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura NSX weights approximately 95 kg more than 1999 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
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, 1999 BMW 318 (355 Nm) has 71 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura NSX. (284 Nm). This means 1999 BMW 318 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura NSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura NSX | 1999 BMW 318 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | NSX | 318 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1798 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 192 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 7250 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 355 Nm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1275 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4490 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1370 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2730 mm |
