2003 Acura RSX vs. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 7 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1996 Chevrolet Corvette. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1996 Chevrolet Corvette would be higher. At 5,733 cc (8 cylinders), 1996 Chevrolet Corvette is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette (330 HP) has 133 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (197 HP) In normal driving conditions, 1996 Chevrolet Corvette should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette weights approximately 199 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 Chevrolet Corvette 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 Chevrolet Corvette. 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 Chevrolet Corvette (461 Nm) has 269 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (192 Nm). This means 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2003 Acura RSX. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette has automatic transmission and 2003 Acura RSX has manual transmission. 2003 Acura RSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 1996 Chevrolet Corvette will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Acura RSX | 1996 Chevrolet Corvette | |
| Make | Acura | Chevrolet |
| Model | RSX | Corvette |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1996 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 5733 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 8 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 2 valves |
| Horse Power | 197 HP | 330 HP |
| Torque | 192 Nm | 461 Nm |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1266 kg | 1465 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4540 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1800 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2450 mm |
