BMW i8 vs Acura NSX - modcarsforsale.com

Stock Motor

BMW i8:

0-60 mph: Approximately 4.2 seconds

Torque: 420 lb-ft

Horsepower: 369 hp (combined output of electric and gasoline engine)

Top Speed: Electronically limited to 155 mph

Quarter Mile Time: Approximately 12.2 seconds

Lap Times: N/A (Not widely tested)

Powertrain Configuration: Hybrid powertrain (turbocharged gasoline engine combined with electric motor)

Transmission Type: 6-speed automatic with an additional electric motor for the front wheels

Power-to-Weight Ratio: Approximately 8.14 lbs/hp

RPM (Shaft Speed): N/A (Information not provided)

Acura NSX:

0-60 mph: Approximately 2.9 seconds

Torque: 476 lb-ft

Horsepower: 573 hp (combined output of twin-turbo V6 gasoline engine and three electric motors)

Top Speed: Electronically limited to 191 mph

Quarter Mile Time: Approximately 11.1 seconds

Lap Times: Nürburgring Nordschleife lap time of 7 minutes 25 seconds

Powertrain Configuration: Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD)

Transmission Type: 9-speed dual-clutch automatic with an additional electric motor for the front wheels

Power-to-Weight Ratio: Approximately 5.63 lbs/hp

RPM (Shaft Speed): N/A (Information not provided)

Comparison and Analysis:

Acceleration and Power:

The Acura NSX showcases superior acceleration, reaching 0-60 mph almost 1.3 seconds faster than the BMW i8. The NSX's higher power output, derived from its twin-turbo V6 engine and electric motors, gives it an edge in straight-line speed.

Handling and Lap Times:

The Acura NSX's Sport Hybrid SH-AWD system enhances handling and cornering capabilities, making it a precise and agile performer on the track. Its impressive Nürburgring lap time demonstrates its prowess as a formidable track machine. However, lap times for the BMW i8 are not widely available, indicating a focus more on luxury and daily usability than ultimate track performance.

Powertrain Configuration and Transmission:

Both cars feature sophisticated hybrid powertrains, combining electric motors with internal combustion engines. The BMW i8's configuration includes a turbocharged gasoline engine paired with an electric motor for the front wheels, while the Acura NSX has a twin-turbo V6 engine paired with three electric motors - two for the front wheels and one for the rear. Both cars utilize automatic transmissions, enhancing their performance and efficiency.

Power-to-Weight Ratio:

The Acura NSX boasts a significantly better power-to-weight ratio than the BMW i8, indicating its higher power output relative to its weight. This ratio contributes to the NSX's incredible acceleration and dynamic handling characteristics.

Tuning Ability

BMW i8 Tuning Potential:

Engine Upgrades:

Power ECU remapping: Custom tuning can optimize engine parameters for increased power and performance.

Performance air filters: High-flow filters improve airflow, boosting engine responsiveness.

Forced Induction Upgrades:

Turbocharger upgrades: Larger or more efficient turbos can provide substantial power gains.

Supercharger conversion: Adding a supercharger can enhance low-end torque and overall power.

Handling Improvements:

Performance suspension kits: Stiffer springs and adjustable dampers improve handling and cornering capabilities.

Lightweight wheels: Reducing unsprung weight enhances handling and responsiveness.

Exhaust System:

Cat-back exhaust: Improves exhaust flow and adds a more aggressive exhaust note.

Performance headers: Optimize exhaust flow and increase horsepower and torque.

Acura NSX Tuning Potential:

Engine Upgrades:

ECU tuning: Custom engine mapping can optimize fuel delivery and ignition timing for better performance.

Performance air intakes: Increase airflow to the engine for improved combustion and power.

Forced Induction Upgrades:

Supercharger kit: Adding a supercharger can provide instant power gains and improve throttle response.

Twin-turbo upgrade: Upgrading the stock turbos can significantly increase power output.

Handling Improvements:

Performance coilovers: Adjustable suspension allows for precise tuning of ride height and damping settings.

Lightweight components: Carbon fiber body panels and wheels reduce weight for improved handling.

Exhaust System:

High-flow cat-back exhaust: Reduces backpressure and adds a more aggressive exhaust note.

Performance headers: Improve exhaust flow for increased horsepower and torque.

Comparison and Analysis:

BMW i8 Tuning Potential:

The BMW i8's hybrid nature presents both advantages and challenges in terms of tuning potential. While ECU remapping, air filters, and exhaust upgrades can enhance performance, extensive engine modifications may be limited due to the integration of electric components. The i8's lightweight construction, however, makes it an excellent candidate for handling improvements through suspension and wheel upgrades.

Acura NSX Tuning Potential:

The Acura NSX's twin-turbo V6 engine, combined with electric motors, offers more traditional tuning potential. ECU tuning, forced induction upgrades, and intake modifications can significantly increase power output. Additionally, the NSX's sophisticated handling system benefits from suspension upgrades and lightweight components to further enhance its cornering abilities.

Suspension

BMW i8 Suspension: Suspension Type: Double-wishbone front and rear suspension Damping Control: Electronically adjustable dampers (Adaptive M Suspension) Adjustability: Driver-selectable drive modes (Comfort, Sport, EcoPro) influence suspension settings Handling: Agile and responsive, with a focus on balanced performance Ride Comfort: Offers a comfortable and smooth ride, suitable for daily driving Ground Clearance: Electronically adjustable to optimize aerodynamics and practicality Weight Distribution: Achieves near-perfect 50:50 weight distribution Acura NSX Suspension: Suspension Type: Double-wishbone front and multi-link rear suspension Damping Control: Continuously Variable Damping (CVD) system with magnetorheological dampers Adjustability: Integrated Dynamics System with four driving modes (Quiet, Sport, Sport+, and Track) Handling: Precise and razor-sharp, delivering exceptional cornering capabilities Ride Comfort: Firm and sporty, while maintaining comfort for everyday driving Ground Clearance: Non-adjustable, optimized for high-speed stability and aerodynamics Weight Distribution: Achieves near-perfect weight distribution with its hybrid powertrain Critique: Suspension Tuning and Handling: The BMW i8's suspension is designed to strike a balance between agile handling and comfortable daily driving. Its electronically adjustable dampers and driver-selectable drive modes allow for a customizable driving experience, making it a versatile sports car for various road conditions and driving styles. The i8's well-balanced weight distribution contributes to its stability during cornering and enhances overall driving dynamics. The Acura NSX's suspension tuning focuses on precision handling and razor-sharp cornering capabilities. The Continuously Variable Damping (CVD) system with magnetorheological dampers adapts to changing driving conditions, providing responsive handling and improved traction. The NSX's integrated dynamics system further enhances its sporty and engaging character, making it an exceptional track performer and driving enthusiasts' delight. Ride Comfort and Ground Clearance: The BMW i8 prioritizes ride comfort, offering a smooth and composed ride suitable for daily commuting and long-distance travel. Its electronically adjustable ground clearance ensures practicality on uneven roads while optimizing aerodynamics at higher speeds. The Acura NSX's suspension, while maintaining a level of comfort for everyday driving, leans more towards a firm and sporty ride. Its non-adjustable ground clearance is optimized for high-speed stability, making it an excellent choice for spirited driving and track use.

Interior

BMW i8 Interior:

Cabin Design: Futuristic and driver-focused design with a center console angled towards the driver.

Materials: Premium quality materials, including leather upholstery and carbon fiber trim.

Infotainment System: BMW's iDrive system with a touchscreen display and gesture controls.

Digital Instrument Cluster: Configurable digital display for vital driving information.

Comfort Features: Heated and power-adjustable seats with lumbar support for enhanced comfort.

Interior Lighting: Ambient lighting adds a modern touch to the cabin.

Cargo Space: Limited cargo space due to battery placement in the rear.

Acura NSX Interior:

Cabin Design: Sleek and sporty design with a modern center stack and supportive seats.

Materials: High-quality materials, such as leather and Alcantara, along with brushed aluminum trim.

Infotainment System: Dual-screen setup with touchscreen controls and a rotary knob for easy navigation.

Digital Instrument Cluster: Customizable digital gauge cluster displaying performance data.

Comfort Features: Heated and power-adjustable seats with sporty bolstering for a race-inspired feel.

Interior Lighting: LED ambient lighting adds a touch of sophistication to the interior.

Cargo Space: Slightly larger cargo space than the i8 due to the front trunk design.

Comparison and Analysis:

BMW i8 Interior:

The BMW i8's interior exudes a futuristic and high-tech ambiance, accentuated by the driver-oriented layout and cutting-edge infotainment system. The quality of materials used, such as leather and carbon fiber, complements the luxurious appeal of the cabin. However, the limited cargo space due to battery placement may be a drawback for those seeking practicality.

Acura NSX Interior:

The Acura NSX's interior design reflects its performance-oriented nature, with a sporty and purposeful layout. High-quality materials like leather and Alcantara, along with brushed aluminum trim, create a premium atmosphere. The dual-screen infotainment system provides a user-friendly interface, while the customizable digital instrument cluster adds a dash of excitement to the driving experience. The NSX's slightly larger cargo space compared to the i8 enhances practicality.