1998 Acura NSX vs. 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle 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 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 202 more horse power than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (74 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura NSX weights approximately 216 kg more than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. 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, 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle, 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 @ 5500 RPM) has 179 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle. (125 Nm @ 3300 RPM). This means 1998 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Acura NSX | 2002 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
Model | NSX | New Beetle |
Year Released | 1998 | 2002 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1422 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 276 HP | 74 HP |
Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 5100 RPM |
Torque | 304 Nm | 125 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3300 RPM |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1244 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4100 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1520 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2470 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |