1998 Acura NSX vs. 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle
To start off, 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle is newer by 5 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 (291 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (100 HP @ 5400 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
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, 2003 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 149 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle. (155 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 1998 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Acura NSX | 2003 Volkswagen New Beetle | |
| Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
| Model | NSX | New Beetle |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 100 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 155 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 77.4 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.2:1 | 10.5:1 |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4090 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1510 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
