2003 Audi A3 vs. 1994 Honda NSX
To start off, 2003 Audi A3 is newer by 9 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1994 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1994 Honda NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1994 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1994 Honda NSX (280 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 142 more horse power than 2003 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1994 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2003 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1994 Honda NSX weights approximately 30 kg more than 2003 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1994 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 1994 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2003 Audi A3, 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, 2003 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 26 more torque (in Nm) than 1994 Honda NSX. (294 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2003 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1994 Honda NSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2003 Audi A3 | 1994 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 2003 | 1994 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1967 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1340 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4210 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2660 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
