2005 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Honda NSX
To start off, 2005 Audi A3 is newer by 8 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1997 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1997 Honda NSX would be higher. At 3,179 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (290 HP @ 7100 RPM) has 152 more horse power than 2005 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2005 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2005 Audi A3 weights approximately 10 kg more than 1997 Honda NSX.
Because 1997 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 1997 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2005 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, 2005 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 9 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda NSX. (311 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2005 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda NSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2005 Audi A3 | 1997 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 2005 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1968 cc | 3179 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 138 HP | 290 HP |
| Engine RPM | 4000 RPM | 7100 RPM |
| Torque | 320 Nm | 311 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Fuel Type | Diesel | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1380 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1170 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 60 L |
