2001 Acura NSX vs. 1988 BMW M5
To start off, 2001 Acura NSX is newer by 13 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 BMW M5. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 BMW M5 would be higher. At 3,533 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 BMW M5 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura NSX (480 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 169 more horse power than 1988 BMW M5. (311 HP @ 6900 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1988 BMW M5.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. 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, 1988 BMW M5 (360 Nm) has 56 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 Acura NSX. (304 Nm). This means 1988 BMW M5 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 Acura NSX. 2001 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 1988 BMW M5 has manual transmission. 1988 BMW M5 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura NSX | 1988 BMW M5 | |
| Make | Acura | BMW |
| Model | NSX | M5 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Sedan |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3500 cc | 3533 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 480 HP | 311 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6900 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 360 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 1 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 4 doors |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4730 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1400 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2770 mm |
