1997 Honda NSX vs. 2008 Honda Civic
To start off, 2008 Honda Civic is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda NSX would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1997 Honda NSX weights approximately 224 kg more than 2008 Honda Civic.
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, 2008 Honda Civic, 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 (311 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 176 more torque (in Nm) than 2008 Honda Civic. (135 Nm @ 4300 RPM). This means 1997 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2008 Honda Civic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda NSX | 2008 Honda Civic | |
| Make | Honda | Honda |
| Model | NSX | Civic |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1493 cc |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 0 HP |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 135 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4300 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 75 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1370 kg | 1146 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4940 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2690 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 50 L |
