1998 Acura NSX vs. 2002 Acura CL
To start off, 2002 Acura CL is newer by 4 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 3,210 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura CL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 16 more horse power than 2002 Acura CL. (260 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura CL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura CL weights approximately 120 kg more than 1998 Acura NSX.
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, 2002 Acura CL, 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, 2002 Acura CL (315 Nm @ 3500 RPM) has 11 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Acura NSX. (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2002 Acura CL will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Acura NSX. 2002 Acura CL 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. 2002 Acura CL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Acura NSX | 2002 Acura CL | |
| Make | Acura | Acura |
| Model | NSX | CL |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3210 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 260 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 315 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3500 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 | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1580 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4880 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1420 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2580 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 65 L |
