2003 Acura RSX vs. 2002 Acura NSX
To start off, 2003 Acura RSX is newer by 1 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2002 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2002 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2002 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2002 Acura NSX (286 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 126 more horse power than 2003 Acura RSX. (160 HP @ 6500 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2002 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Acura RSX. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2002 Acura NSX weights approximately 230 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 2002 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 2002 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, 2002 Acura NSX (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM) has 113 more torque (in Nm) than 2003 Acura RSX. (191 Nm @ 4000 RPM). This means 2002 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 | 2002 Acura NSX | |
| Make | Acura | Acura |
| Model | RSX | NSX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 2002 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1998 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 160 HP | 286 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Torque | 191 Nm | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 4000 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| 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 | 1222 kg | 1452 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4380 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1730 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1410 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
