1998 Honda NSX vs. 2003 Mazda 3
To start off, 2003 Mazda 3 is newer by 5 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda NSX 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 147 more horse power than 2003 Mazda 3. (143 HP @ 6000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Honda NSX weights approximately 80 kg more than 2003 Mazda 3. 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, 2003 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 Honda NSX (311 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 124 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Mazda 3. (187 Nm @ 4500 RPM). This means 1998 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Honda NSX | 2003 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | NSX | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2003 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1970 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 290 HP | 143 HP |
Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6000 RPM |
Torque | 311 Nm | 187 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4500 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 83.1 mm |
Drive Type | Rear | Front |
Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
Vehicle Weight | 1390 kg | 1310 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4430 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2730 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |