1997 Acura NSX vs. 2008 Cadillac DTS

To start off, 2008 Cadillac DTS 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 4,565 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Cadillac DTS is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Cadillac DTS (292 HP @ 6300 RPM) has 20 more horse power than 1997 Acura NSX. (272 HP @ 7300 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Cadillac DTS should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura NSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Cadillac DTS weights approximately 268 kg more than 1997 Acura NSX. 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, 2008 Cadillac DTS, 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, 2008 Cadillac DTS (391 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 107 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura NSX. (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2008 Cadillac DTS will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura NSX. 2008 Cadillac DTS 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 Cadillac DTS will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Acura NSX 2008 Cadillac DTS
Make Acura Cadillac
Model NSX DTS
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Coupe Sedan
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2977 cc 4565 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type V V
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 272 HP 292 HP
Engine RPM 7300 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 284 Nm 391 Nm
Torque RPM 5400 RPM 4500 RPM
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 4 doors
Vehicle Weight 1370 kg 1638 kg
Vehicle Length 4420 mm 5280 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1910 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1470 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2940 mm