2008 Audi A3 vs. 1997 Honda NSX
To start off, 2008 Audi A3 is newer by 11 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 2008 Audi A3. (138 HP @ 4000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi A3 weights approximately 7 kg more than 1997 Honda NSX.
Because 2008 Audi A3 is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1997 Honda NSX. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Audi A3 will offer significantly more control. 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 Audi A3 (320 Nm @ 1750 RPM) has 16 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda NSX. (304 Nm @ 5500 RPM). This means 2008 Audi A3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda NSX. 2008 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1997 Honda NSX has manual transmission. 1997 Honda NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi A3 | 1997 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 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 | 304 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1750 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 81 mm | 93 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 95.5 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 18.0:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Top Speed | 205 km/hour | 270 km/hour |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1505 kg | 1498 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4220 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
