2002 Acura NSX vs. 1996 Saturn SC
To start off, 2002 Acura NSX is newer by 6 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Saturn SC. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Saturn SC 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 148 more horse power than 1996 Saturn SC. (101 HP @ 5000 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1996 Saturn SC. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura NSX weights approximately 385 kg more than 1996 Saturn SC. 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, 1996 Saturn SC, 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 127 more torque (in Nm) than 1996 Saturn SC. (158 Nm @ 2400 RPM). This means 2002 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1996 Saturn SC.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura NSX | 1996 Saturn SC | |
| Make | Acura | Saturn |
| Model | NSX | SC |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1996 |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1901 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 101 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 158 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 2400 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1045 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4580 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1720 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1360 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2610 mm |
