1997 Acura NSX vs. 2011 Audi R8
To start off, 2011 Audi R8 is newer by 14 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 4,200 cc (8 cylinders), 2011 Audi R8 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2011 Audi R8 (420 HP) has 148 more horse power than 1997 Acura NSX. (272 HP) In normal driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 should accelerate faster than 1997 Acura NSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2011 Audi R8 weights approximately 265 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 2011 Audi R8 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Acura NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 Audi R8 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, 2011 Audi R8 (430 Nm @ 4500 RPM) has 146 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Acura NSX. (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2011 Audi R8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Acura NSX. 2011 Audi R8 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. 2011 Audi R8 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Acura NSX | 2011 Audi R8 | |
| Make | Acura | Audi |
| Model | NSX | R8 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Middle |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 4200 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 272 HP | 420 HP |
| Torque | 284 Nm | 430 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1635 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4435 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1930 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1252 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2649 mm |
