2009 Audi A3 vs. 1990 Honda NSX
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1990 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1990 Honda NSX would be higher. At 2,976 cc (6 cylinders), 1990 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1990 Honda NSX (270 HP @ 7300 RPM) has 70 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (200 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1990 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 1990 Honda NSX weights approximately 335 kg more than 2009 Audi A3. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 1990 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 1990 Honda NSX. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2009 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, 1990 Honda NSX (285 Nm @ 6500 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (281 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1990 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3. 2009 Audi A3 has automatic transmission and 1990 Honda NSX has manual transmission. 1990 Honda NSX will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2009 Audi A3 will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1990 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1990 |
| Body Type | Hatchback | Coupe |
| Engine Position | Front | Middle |
| Engine Size | 1983 cc | 2976 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 4 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | V |
| Valves per Cylinder | 4 valves | 4 valves |
| Horse Power | 200 HP | 270 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 7300 RPM |
| Torque | 281 Nm | 285 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 6500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.6 mm | 90 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 3 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1030 kg | 1365 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4410 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1970 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2610 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
