2021 Nissan GT-R Nismo vs. 2021 Acura NSX

The prime example of decades worth of rivalry exists between the 2021 Nissan GT-R and the Acura NSX. Both supercar models have been on the market for some time and have yet to be completely updated since launch. Though both cars boast enhanced performance and aggressive styling, which is the best supercar for you?

Our team at Maus Nissan New Port Richey puts these two vehicles in a head-to-head battle. Let's see who prevails!

 

Trims

Both supercars are only available in a single standard trim, though the GT-R is also available in a highly enhanced Nismo trim. Both are AWD. The Nissan GT-R comes with a 3.8L twin-turbo V6 and the Acura NSX comes with a 3.5L twin-turbo V6 but in a hybrid setup.

The GT-R Nismo is the ultimate performance model and costs about $100,000 more than the premium model. Standard features include:

       Synthetic suede and leather front seats

       4-way passenger and 8-way driver power adjustments

       Dual-zone automatic climate control

       8-inch infotainment touchscreen

       USB ports

       Bluetooth

       11-speaker Bose audio system

     Titanium exhaust

     Satellite radio

     Brembo brake calipers

     Adjustable dampers

     A rear spoiler

     LED taillights and headlights

For 2021, Nissan has replaced the 50th Anniversary Edition of the GT-R with a limited edition T-Spec trim which adds wider front fenders, gold-painted wheels, a carbon fiber rear spoiler, and the choice between Millenium Jade or Midnight Purple paint.

The NSX is a formidable opponent and offers a hybrid-electric powertrain with three electric motors with a combined total of 573 horsepower.

 

Performance

 

With its 3.8-liter twin-turbo V6 engine, the GT-R offers 600 horsepower and 481 lb.-ft. of torque. With track-ready handling, agility, and raucous power, the GT-R is a top sports car in terms of performance. With its 6-speed and dual-clutch automatic transmission and AWD, it can go from 0-60 mph in just 2.9 seconds. Amazing!

The GT-R offers quick steering, adjustable suspension, and a rigid structure that can make any driver feel heroic behind the wheel. Plus, thanks to active sound cancellation, the sound of the GT-R's engine doesn't hurt your eardrums when cruising the open road.

The NSX is a formidable opponent and offers a hybrid-electric powertrain with three electric motors with a combined total of 573 horsepower. It also offers Quiet and Sport modes, to make the NSX feel more maneuverable for daily driving. This setup feels out of date on such a performance-oriented vehicle though.

The gas tank capacity is 19.5 gallons for the Nissan GT-R Nismo, and 15.6 for the Acura NSX. It is estimated that the GT-R earns 16 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway. Thanks to its hybrid engine the NSX earns 21 mpg in the city and 22 on the highway.

 

Interior Features

 

The GT-R seats four while the NSX seats two. The interior of the GT-R is sporty and ergonomic with an infotainment system and leather appointments that are worthy of the price. The front seats are thickly bolstered and quite comfortable, and with adaptive dampers with active noise cancellation, the GT-R is comfortable enough for daily driving as well.

The NSX is known as the everyday supercar, but its cabin does not have the premium feel and luxurious amenities that you would expect in a luxury Acura. While the seats are comfortable, they have little bolstering, and for a car that is marketed as an everyday supercar, its cargo spaces are lacking and it has a minuscule trunk.

 

Technology

 

Every 2021 Nissan GT-R Nismo is outfitted with an 8.0-inch touchscreen that can be controlled with a rotary knob. Apple CarPlay, built-in navigation, and a Bose audio system come standard, but Android Auto is unavailable at this time.

The Acura NSX offers a 7.0-inch infotainment touchscreen with standard integrated navigation and an ELZ studio nine-speaker stereo system. Unfortunately, the system's interface is outdated and unintuitive.

 

Safety

 

The GT-R includes airbags, anti-lock brakes, traction control, and stability control as safety features. Other notable features include rear and front parking sensors. You won't find any of Nissan's driver assistance or safety features, but those kinds of electronic systems are not common in most of the GT-R's rivals either.

The NSX has not been through crash testing with the NHTSA or the IIHS, but a comprehensive standard airbag system provides ample protection. It also includes rear and front parking sensors.

 

Bottom Line

 

When you want to buy the best supercar on the market, the 2021 Nissan GT-R Nismo should be your first choice! With a powerful engine, luxury amenities, and aggressive exterior styling, the GT-R is a dangerous rival for other supercars on the market today.

 

Test Drive a Nissan GT-R Nismo today!

 

Don't sit out on the sidelines! Come test drive a 2021 Nissan GT-R Nismo at Maus Nissan New Port Richey or call our sales team at  (727) 999-6287 for more information on this incredible supercar today!