1997 Acura NSX vs. 2012 Mazda 3
To start off, 2012 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 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 105 more horse power than 2012 Mazda 3. (167 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2012 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Mazda 3 weights approximately 13 kg more than 1997 Acura NSX.
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, 2012 Mazda 3, 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 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1997 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Mazda 3. 2012 Mazda 3 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. 2012 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
1997 Acura NSX | 2012 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Acura | Mazda |
Model | NSX | 3 |
Year Released | 1997 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2500 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 272 HP | 167 HP |
Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 284 Nm | 228 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 4000 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1383 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4420 mm | 4506 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1471 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2639 mm |