2002 Acura RSX vs. 2012 BMW M3
To start off, 2012 BMW M3 is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura RSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura RSX would be higher. At 3,999 cc (8 cylinders), 2012 BMW M3 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2012 BMW M3 (414 HP @ 8300 RPM) has 191 more horse power than 2002 Acura RSX. (223 HP @ 5600 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2012 BMW M3 should accelerate faster than 2002 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2012 BMW M3 weights approximately 655 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 2012 BMW M3 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 2012 BMW M3. 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, 2012 BMW M3 (400 Nm) has 207 more torque (in Nm) than 2002 Acura RSX. (193 Nm). This means 2012 BMW M3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2002 Acura RSX. 2002 Acura RSX has automatic transmission and 2012 BMW M3 has manual transmission. 2012 BMW M3 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 | 2012 BMW M3 | |
Make | Acura | BMW |
Model | RSX | M3 |
Year Released | 2002 | 2012 |
Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
Engine Position | Front | Front |
Engine Size | 1999 cc | 3999 cc |
Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
Engine Type | in-line | V |
Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
Horse Power | 223 HP | 414 HP |
Engine RPM | 5600 RPM | 8300 RPM |
Torque | 193 Nm | 400 Nm |
Drive Type | Front | Rear |
Transmission Type | Automatic | 6-speed manual |
Number of Seats | 4 seats | 5 seats |
Vehicle Weight | 1230 kg | 1885 kg |
Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4615 mm |
Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1803 mm |
Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2761 mm |
Fuel Tank Capacity | 65 L | 63 L |