1998 Honda NSX vs. 1970 Honda Z

To start off, 1998 Honda NSX is newer by 28 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1970 Honda Z. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1970 Honda Z would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 239 more horse power than 1970 Honda Z. (37 HP @ 6600 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1970 Honda Z. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda NSX weights approximately 939 kg more than 1970 Honda Z. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 1998 Honda 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 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1970 Honda Z, 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 Honda NSX (304 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 259 more torque (in Nm) than 1970 Honda Z. (45 Nm @ 7000 RPM). This means 1998 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1970 Honda Z.

Compare all specifications:

1998 Honda NSX 1970 Honda Z
Make Honda Honda
Model NSX Z
Year Released 1998 1970
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 3179 cc 599 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 2 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 276 HP 37 HP
Engine RPM 7300 RPM 6600 RPM
Torque 304 Nm 45 Nm
Torque RPM 5300 RPM 7000 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 1464 kg 525 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 3000 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1300 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1280 mm
Wheelbase Size 2630 mm 2010 mm