2002 Acura NSX vs. 2005 Mazda 3
To start off, 2005 Mazda 3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura NSX 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 145 more horse power than 2005 Mazda 3. (104 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2005 Mazda 3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura NSX weights approximately 350 kg more than 2005 Mazda 3. 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, 2005 Mazda 3, 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 140 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Mazda 3. (145 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Mazda 3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura NSX | 2005 Mazda 3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | NSX | 3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 2005 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1596 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 104 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 145 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 4000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1080 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1760 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
