2009 Audi A3 vs. 1998 Honda NSX
To start off, 2009 Audi A3 is newer by 11 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 Honda NSX. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 Honda NSX would be higher. At 2,977 cc (6 cylinders), 1998 Honda NSX is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1998 Honda NSX (252 HP @ 6600 RPM) has 55 more horse power than 2009 Audi A3. (197 HP @ 5100 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 1998 Honda NSX should accelerate faster than 2009 Audi A3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2009 Audi A3 weights approximately 55 kg more than 1998 Honda NSX.
Because 1998 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 1998 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, 1998 Honda NSX (284 Nm @ 5400 RPM) has 4 more torque (in Nm) than 2009 Audi A3. (280 Nm @ 1800 RPM). This means 1998 Honda NSX will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2009 Audi A3.
Compare all specifications:
| 2009 Audi A3 | 1998 Honda NSX | |
| Make | Audi | Honda |
| Model | A3 | NSX |
| Year Released | 2009 | 1998 |
| 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 | 197 HP | 252 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5100 RPM | 6600 RPM |
| Torque | 280 Nm | 284 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 1800 RPM | 5400 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 82.5 mm | 90.1 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 92.8 mm | 78 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 10.5:1 | 9.6:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 7 seconds | 7.5 seconds |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Automatic | Automatic |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 5 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1485 kg | 1430 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4290 mm | 4430 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1770 mm | 1820 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1430 mm | 1180 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2580 mm | 2540 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 55 L | 70 L |
