1999 Acura NSX vs. 2012 Lexus RX
To start off, 2012 Lexus RX is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,500 cc (6 cylinders), 2012 Lexus RX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1999 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 6 more horse power than 2012 Lexus RX. (270 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1999 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2012 Lexus RX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 Lexus RX weights approximately 431 kg more than 1999 Acura NSX.
Because 1999 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 1999 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2012 Lexus RX, 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, 2012 Lexus RX (336 Nm @ 4700 RPM) has 32 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Acura NSX. (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2012 Lexus RX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Acura NSX. 2012 Lexus RX has automatic transmission and 1999 Acura NSX has manual transmission. 1999 Acura NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2012 Lexus RX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 1999 Acura NSX | 2012 Lexus RX | |
| Make | Acura | Lexus |
| Model | NSX | RX |
| Year Released | 1999 | 2012 |
| Body Type | Coupe | SUV |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 3500 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 276 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7300 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 336 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 6-speed shiftable automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1464 kg | 1895 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4770 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1885 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1720 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2741 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 68 L | 73 L |
