2003 Acura NSX vs. 1988 Volkswagen Golf
To start off, 2003 Acura NSX is newer by 15 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1988 Volkswagen Golf. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1988 Volkswagen Golf would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 2003 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2003 Acura NSX (249 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 92 more horse power than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (157 HP @ 5800 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2003 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2003 Acura NSX weights approximately 235 kg more than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1988 Volkswagen Golf is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 2003 Acura NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer significantly more control. 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, 2003 Acura NSX (285 Nm @ 5300 RPM) has 60 more torque (in Nm) than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. (225 Nm @ 3800 RPM). This means 2003 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1988 Volkswagen Golf. 2003 Acura NSX has automatic transmission and 1988 Volkswagen Golf has manual transmission. 1988 Volkswagen Golf will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2003 Acura NSX will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura NSX | 1988 Volkswagen Golf | |
| Make | Acura | Volkswagen |
| Model | NSX | Golf |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1988 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 2977 cc | 1763 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Horse Power | 249 HP | 157 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6600 RPM | 5800 RPM |
| Torque | 285 Nm | 225 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5300 RPM | 3800 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | 4WD |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 3 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1430 kg | 1195 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4040 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1710 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1410 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2490 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 70 L | 55 L |
