1998 Acura NSX vs. 2013 Mazda 3
To start off, 2013 Mazda 3 is newer by 15 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 111 more horse power than 2013 Mazda 3. (165 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2013 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura NSX weights approximately 77 kg more than 2013 Mazda 3. 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, 2013 Mazda 3, 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 76 more torque (in Nm) than 2013 Mazda 3. (228 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 1998 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2013 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Acura NSX | 2013 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | NSX | 3 |
| Year Released | 1998 | 2013 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2489 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 165 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6000 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 228 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1460 kg | 1383 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4595 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2640 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 55 L |
