The original NSX was first produced in 1990 by Honda in Japan and in 1991 by Acura in the United States. It is now nearly 30 years old and people still gawk over the original NSX, which was well ahead of its time. Over the 15 years that it was in production from 1990-2005, the original NSX gained a reputation that has held up to this day.  The next generation was introduced in 2016, 11 years after Acura stopped production of the original. It is almost unfair to compare them, as the two are completely different beasts. The original was designed with ergonomics and reliability in mind, all while keeping par with the performance of exotic cars at the time. A consumer based supercar, if you will.

1991 NSX Price

The original NSX had a starting MSRP of $62,000 (USD). If we factor in inflation, that would cost about $116,000 in today's dollars. That's considerably pricy for a car in 1991, but in terms of comparable supercars, nothing else even came close to the value of the NSX.

1991 NSX Performance

In terms of raw power, the NSX performs very well. Behind the seats rests a mid engine, naturally aspirated, 3.0 litre V6 engine that produced 270 horsepower. At the time, the NSX achieved an amazing 90 horsepower per litre, beating out Ferrari 328’s V8 engine, and going 0-60 mph in 5.9 seconds.

1991 NSX Drivetrain and Transmission

The V6 engine was paired with a rear wheel drive system and a 5 speed manual transmission with the option for a 4 speed automatic. An all-wheel drive system was considered, but it was ditched for RWD as it would add 200 pounds to the overall weight of the NSX.

The second generation NSX is a different story. It has all the performance, technology, and beauty of a modern supercar. We have to remember, however, that nearly 30 years separates these two cars.

2019 NSX Price

The 2019 NSX has a starting MSRP of $157,500 (USD). That's only about $40,000 more MSRP when we compare it to the inflated price from 1991. You are getting a lot more performance and features (30 years of advancements may have something to do with this) for the price, but they are still unique in their own ways.

2019 NSX Performance

The 2nd generation NSX is completely redesigned from the original. Its rear engine setup features a 3.5 litre twin turbo V6 that achieves an astonishing 573 horsepower. This NSX also has two electric motors powering the front wheels that deal out immediate torque for very quick acceleration. It goes from 0-60 mph in 2.7 seconds with a top speed of 191 mph (307 Kph).

2019 NSX Drivetrain and Transmission

The bigger V6 engine is paired with a 9-speed automatic transmission and a hybrid AWD drivetrain. It produces 476 lb-ft of torque thanks to the electric motors that power the front wheels.

Whether you are looking to buy one or are just generally curious about these Japanese supercars, they are both unique in their own aspects.