1997 Acura NSX vs. 2008 Saturn Astra

To start off, 2008 Saturn Astra 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 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 133 more horse power than 2008 Saturn Astra. (139 HP @ 6300 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2008 Saturn Astra. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Acura NSX weights approximately 85 kg more than 2008 Saturn Astra. 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 Saturn Astra, 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 114 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Saturn Astra. (170 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1997 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Saturn Astra.

Compare all specifications:

1997 Acura NSX 2008 Saturn Astra
Make Acura Saturn
Model NSX Astra
Year Released 1997 2008
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2977 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 272 HP 139 HP
Engine RPM 7300 RPM 6300 RPM
Torque 284 Nm 170 Nm
Torque RPM 5400 RPM 3800 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1370 kg 1285 kg
Vehicle Length 4420 mm 4340 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1760 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1460 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2620 mm