2002 Acura NSX vs. 1987 Ford Probe
To start off, 2002 Acura NSX is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Ford Probe. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Ford Probe 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 141 more horse power than 1987 Ford Probe. (108 HP @ 4700 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1987 Ford Probe. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura NSX weights approximately 180 kg more than 1987 Ford Probe. 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, 1987 Ford Probe, 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 106 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Ford Probe. (179 Nm @ 3000 RPM). This means 2002 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Ford Probe. 2002 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 1987 Ford Probe has manual transmission. 1987 Ford Probe 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 | 1987 Ford Probe | |
| Make | Acura | Ford |
| Model | NSX | Probe |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1987 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 2183 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 108 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 4700 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 179 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.1 mm | 86 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 94 mm |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1250 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4510 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1730 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1330 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2530 mm |
