1998 Honda NSX vs. 1996 Volkswagen Jetta
To start off, 1998 Honda NSX is newer by 2 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Volkswagen Jetta 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 (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (174 HP @ 4000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
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, 1996 Volkswagen Jetta, 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 (311 Nm) has 76 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta. (235 Nm). This means 1998 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Volkswagen Jetta.
Compare all specifications:
| 1998 Honda NSX | 1996 Volkswagen Jetta | |
| Make | Honda | Volkswagen |
| Model | NSX | Jetta |
| Year Released | 1998 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2800 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Horse Power | 290 HP | 174 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Torque | 311 Nm | 235 Nm |
| Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 90.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2480 mm |
