2002 Acura NSX vs. 1978 Volkswagen Citi

To start off, 2002 Acura NSX is newer by 24 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1978 Volkswagen Citi. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1978 Volkswagen Citi would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura NSX (249 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 168 more horse power than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (81 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura NSX weights approximately 550 kg more than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2002 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 2002 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1978 Volkswagen Citi, 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, 2002 Acura NSX (285 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 154 more torque (in Nm) than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. (131 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1978 Volkswagen Citi. 2002 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 1978 Volkswagen Citi has manual transmission. 1978 Volkswagen Citi will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

2002 Acura NSX 1978 Volkswagen Citi
Make Acura Volkswagen
Model NSX Citi
Year Released 2002 1978
Body Type Coupe Hatchback
Engine Position Middle Front
Engine Size 2977 cc 1595 cc
Engine Cylinders 6 cylinders 4 cylinders
Engine Type V in-line
Horse Power 249 HP 81 HP
Engine RPM 6600 RPM 5000 RPM
Torque 285 Nm 131 Nm
Torque RPM 5300 RPM 4000 RPM
Fuel Type Gasoline Gasoline
Drive Type Rear Front
Transmission Type Automatic Manual
Number of Seats 2 seats 5 seats
Vehicle Weight 1430 kg 880 kg
Vehicle Length 4430 mm 3820 mm
Vehicle Width 1820 mm 1620 mm
Vehicle Height 1180 mm 1420 mm
Wheelbase Size 2540 mm 2410 mm