2008 Audi S3 vs. 1997 Honda NSX
To start off, 2008 Audi S3 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 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1997 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1997 Honda NSX (280 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 28 more horse power than 2008 Audi S3. (252 HP @ 6000 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1997 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2008 Audi S3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Audi S3 weights approximately 85 kg more than 1997 Honda NSX.
Because 2008 Audi S3 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 S3 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 S3 (330 Nm @ 2400 RPM) has 36 more torque (in Nm) than 1997 Honda NSX. (294 Nm @ 5400 RPM). This means 2008 Audi S3 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1997 Honda NSX.
Compare all specifications:
| 2008 Audi S3 | 1997 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | S3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 2008 | 1997 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1982 cc | 2977 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 252 HP | 280 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6000 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 294 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2400 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.8:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline |
| Drive Type | 4WD | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 4 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1455 kg | 1370 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4180 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 60 L | 70 L |
