2005 Acura NSX vs. 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3
To start off, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 is newer by 3 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 2005 Acura NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 2005 Acura NSX would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 2005 Acura NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2005 Acura NSX (286 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 23 more horse power than 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. (263 HP @ 5500 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 2005 Acura NSX should accelerate faster than 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Acura NSX weights approximately 270 kg more than 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2005 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 2005 Acura NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3, 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, 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 (380 Nm @ 3000 RPM) has 75 more torque (in Nm) than 2005 Acura NSX. (305 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2005 Acura NSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Acura NSX | 2008 Mazda MazdaSpeed3 | |
| Make | Acura | Mazda |
| Model | NSX | MazdaSpeed3 |
| Year Released | 2005 | 2008 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Hatchback |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3179 cc | 2260 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 4 cylinders |
| Engine Type | V | in-line |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 286 HP | 263 HP |
| Engine RPM | 7100 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Torque | 305 Nm | 380 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5500 RPM | 3000 RPM |
| Drive Type | Rear | Front |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 5 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 5 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1450 kg | 1180 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4430 mm | 4500 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1820 mm | 1770 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1180 mm | 1470 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2540 mm | 2650 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 50 L | 55 L |
