2002 Acura RSX vs. 1988 Nissan 300 ZX
To start off, 2002 Acura RSX is newer by 14 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Nissan 300 ZX would be higher. At 2,960 cc (6 cylinders), 1988 Nissan 300 ZX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura RSX (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) has 52 more horse power than 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. (171 HP @ 5200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX should accelerate faster than 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1988 Nissan 300 ZX weights approximately 230 kg more than 2002 Acura RSX.
Because 1988 Nissan 300 ZX 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 1988 Nissan 300 ZX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2002 Acura RSX, 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, 1988 Nissan 300 ZX (234 Nm) has 41 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RSX. (193 Nm). This means 1988 Nissan 300 ZX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RSX. 2002 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1988 Nissan 300 ZX has manual transmission. 1988 Nissan 300 ZX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2002 Acura RSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Acura RSX | 1988 Nissan 300 ZX | |
| Make | Acura | Nissan |
| Model | RSX | 300 ZX |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 2960 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 171 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 5200 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 234 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1460 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4550 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1730 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2530 mm |
