1997 Acura NSX vs. 2008 Audi A3
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 3,196 cc (6 cylinders), 2008 Audi A3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Acura NSX (272 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 22 more horse power than 2008 Audi A3. (250 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1997 Acura NSX.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Acura NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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, 2008 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 3200 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura NSX. (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura NSX. 2008 Audi A3 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. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura NSX | 2008 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Acura | Audi |
| Model | NSX | A3 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 3196 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 250 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6300 RPM |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 320 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 3200 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1455 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1970 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2580 mm |
