2002 Honda NSX vs. 1995 Mazda MX-3
To start off, 2002 Honda NSX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1995 Mazda MX-3. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1995 Mazda MX-3 would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Honda NSX (286 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 180 more horse power than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (106 HP @ 6200 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2002 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 1995 Mazda MX-3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Honda NSX weights approximately 351 kg more than 1995 Mazda MX-3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2002 Honda 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 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1995 Mazda MX-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 Honda NSX (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 170 more torque (in Nm) than 1995 Mazda MX-3. (134 Nm @ 3600 RPM). This means 2002 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1995 Mazda MX-3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2002 Honda NSX | 1995 Mazda MX-3 | |
| Make | Honda | Mazda |
| Model | NSX | MX-3 |
| Year Released | 2002 | 1995 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 1598 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 106 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 6200 RPM |
| Torque | 304 Nm | 134 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3600 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 4 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1410 kg | 1059 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4230 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1700 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1320 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2460 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 65 L |
