2002 Acura RSX vs. 1998 Acura NSX
To start off, 2002 Acura RSX is newer by 4 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Acura NSX (276 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 53 more horse power than 2002 Acura RSX. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1998 Acura NSX weights approximately 230 kg more than 2002 Acura RSX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1998 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 1998 Acura NSX. 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, 1998 Acura NSX (304 Nm) has 111 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RSX. (193 Nm). This means 1998 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RSX. 2002 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 1998 Acura NSX has manual transmission. 1998 Acura NSX 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 | 1998 Acura NSX | |
| Make | Acura | Acura |
| Model | RSX | NSX |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1998 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 223 HP | 276 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 193 Nm | 304 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 | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 68 L |
