1998 Acura NSX vs. 2012 Audi A3
To start off, 2012 Audi A3 is newer by 14 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 91 more horse power than 2012 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2012 Audi A3.
Because 2012 Audi A3 is all wheel drive (AWD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 Acura NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 24 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Audi A3. 2012 Audi A3 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. 2012 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Acura NSX | 2012 Audi A3 | |
| Make | Acura | Audi |
| Model | NSX | A3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 291 HP | 200 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5100 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 280 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 1800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | AWD |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed automated manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4290 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1763 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1422 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2578 mm |
