1998 Acura NSX vs. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am
To start off, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,498 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Pontiac Grand Am is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 128 more horse power than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (148 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura NSX weights approximately 30 kg more than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Pontiac Grand Am, 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, 1998 Acura NSX (304 Nm) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. (278 Nm). This means 1998 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Pontiac Grand Am. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am has automatic transmission and 1998 Acura NSX has manual transmission. 1998 Acura NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Pontiac Grand Am will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Acura NSX | 2001 Pontiac Grand Am | |
| Make | Acura | Pontiac |
| Model | NSX | Grand Am |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2001 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3498 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 278 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4740 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1790 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2720 mm |
