1998 Honda NSX vs. 2009 Mazda 3
To start off, 2009 Mazda 3 is newer by 11 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 27 more horse power than 2009 Mazda 3. (263 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2009 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Mazda 3 weights approximately 160 kg more than 1998 Honda NSX.
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, 2009 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, 2009 Mazda 3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 69 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 Honda NSX. (311 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2009 Mazda 3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 Honda NSX.
Compare all specifications:
1998 Honda NSX | 2009 Mazda 3 | |
Make | Honda | Mazda |
Model | NSX | 3 |
Year Released | 1998 | 2009 |
Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
Engine Position | Middle | Front |
Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2260 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
Engine Type | V | in-line |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 290 HP | 263 HP |
Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
Torque | 311 Nm | 380 Nm |
Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
Engine Bore Size | 93 mm | 87.5 mm |
Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 94 mm |
Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
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 | 1550 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4410 mm | 4500 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |