2003 Acura RSX vs. 1996 Acura NSX
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Acura NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1996 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Acura NSX (271 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 74 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (197 HP @ 7400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Acura NSX weights approximately 104 kg more than 2003 Acura RSX. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1996 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 1996 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 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, 1996 Acura NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 92 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (192 Nm @ 6000 RPM). This means 1996 Acura NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 1996 Acura NSX | |
| Make | Acura | Acura |
| Model | RSX | NSX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 271 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7400 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 284 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 6000 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 85.9 mm | 89.9 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 85.9 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 11.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
