1997 Honda NSX vs. 1987 Mazda 323
To start off, 1997 Honda NSX is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Mazda 323. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Mazda 323 would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (280 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 214 more horse power than 1987 Mazda 323. (66 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1987 Mazda 323. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 500 kg more than 1987 Mazda 323. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1997 Honda 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 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Mazda 323, 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 Honda NSX (294 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 193 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Mazda 323. (101 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Mazda 323.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda NSX | 1987 Mazda 323 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | NSX | 323 |
| Year Released | 1997 | 1987 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1324 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 280 HP | 66 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 294 Nm | 101 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5400 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 870 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4000 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1660 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2410 mm |
