1998 Acura NSX vs. 2012 Honda Civic

To start off, 2012 Honda Civic 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) has 153 more horse power than 2012 Honda Civic. (138 HP). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2012 Honda Civic.

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, 2012 Honda Civic, 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 130 more torque (in Nm) than 2012 Honda Civic. (174 Nm). This means 1998 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2012 Honda Civic. 2012 Honda Civic 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 Honda Civic will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Acura NSX 2012 Honda Civic
Make Acura Honda
Model NSX Civic
Year Released 1998 2012
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 3179 cc 1799 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Valves per Cylinder 4 valves 4 valves
Horse Power 291 HP 138 HP
Torque 304 Nm 174 Nm
Engine Bore Size 93 mm 81 mm
Engine Stroke Size 78 mm 87.3 mm
Engine Compression Ratio 10.2:1 10.5:1
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Number of Doors 2 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1785 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1460 mm


 

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