2001 Acura RL vs. 1998 Acura NSX
To start off, 2001 Acura RL is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,472 cc (6 cylinders), 2001 Acura RL is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 71 more horse power than 2001 Acura RL. (205 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2001 Acura RL. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 Acura RL weights approximately 215 kg more than 1998 Acura NSX.
Because 1998 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 1998 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2001 Acura RL, 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, both vehicles can yield 304 Nm of torque. So under normal driving conditions, the ability to climb up hills and pull heavy equipment should be relatively similar for both vehicles. 2001 Acura RL has automatic transmission and 1998 Acura NSX has manual transmission. 1998 Acura NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2001 Acura RL will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2001 Acura RL | 1998 Acura NSX | |
| Make | Acura | Acura |
| Model | RL | NSX |
| Year Released | 2001 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Sedan | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 3472 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 205 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2800 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 4 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1675 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 5000 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1440 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2920 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 68 L |
