1997 Honda NSX vs. 2011 Ford Explorer
To start off, 2011 Ford Explorer is newer by 14 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 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2011 Ford Explorer is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, both vehicles can yield 290 horse power. So under normal driving conditions, the acceleration of both vehicles should be relatively similar.
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, 2011 Ford Explorer, 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, 2011 Ford Explorer (345 Nm @ 4000 RPM) has 34 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda NSX. (311 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2011 Ford Explorer will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda NSX. 2011 Ford Explorer has automatic transmission and 1997 Honda NSX has manual transmission. 1997 Honda NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Ford Explorer will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1997 Honda NSX | 2011 Ford Explorer | |
| Make | Honda | Ford |
| Model | NSX | Explorer |
| Year Released | 1997 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 345 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 5006 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 2004 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1170 mm | 1788 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2860 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
