2001 Acura NSX vs. 2011 Mazda 3
To start off, 2011 Mazda 3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2001 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2001 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,201 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2001 Acura NSX (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 75 more horse power than 2011 Mazda 3. (148 HP @ 6500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2001 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2011 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura NSX weights approximately 275 kg more than 2011 Mazda 3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2001 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 2001 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2011 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, 2001 Acura NSX (304 Nm) has 121 more torque (in Nm) than 2011 Mazda 3. (183 Nm). This means 2001 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2011 Mazda 3. 2011 Mazda 3 has automatic transmission and 2001 Acura NSX has manual transmission. 2001 Acura NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2011 Mazda 3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura NSX | 2011 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | NSX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2001 | 2011 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3201 cc | 2000 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 148 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 183 Nm |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | 5-speed automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1575 kg | 1300 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4590 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1755 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1471 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2639 mm |
