2002 Acura NSX vs. 1999 Audi S3
To start off, 2002 Acura NSX is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1999 Audi S3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1999 Audi S3 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 39 more horse power than 1999 Audi S3. (210 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1999 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1999 Audi S3 weights approximately 100 kg more than 2002 Acura NSX.
Because 1999 Audi S3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2002 Acura NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1999 Audi S3 will offer significantly more control. 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 15 more torque (in Nm) than 1999 Audi S3. (270 Nm @ 2100 RPM). This means 2002 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1999 Audi S3. 2002 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 1999 Audi S3 has manual transmission. 1999 Audi S3 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 | 1999 Audi S3 | |
| Make | Acura | Audi |
| Model | NSX | S3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1999 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1781 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 210 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 270 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 2100 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 90.1 mm | 81 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 78 mm | 86.4 mm |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1530 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4160 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1430 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2520 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 42 L |
