Is the Acura RSX fast?
Yes. The RSX is fast, especially the Type-S variant, which used a high-revving 2.0-liter engine and a light chassis to deliver brisk acceleration for its era.
Produced from 2002 to 2006, the RSX came in a base model and a higher-performance Type-S. In today’s used-car market, speed is best understood in terms of variant, gearing, and condition, rather than modern performance benchmarks. This article examines the RSX’s speed through its powertrain, acceleration figures, and how it stacks up against peers from the same era and today.
Power and propulsion
This overview compares the two main trim levels’ power output and how that translates into speed in typical driving scenarios.
- RSX Base: about 160 horsepower and around 141 lb-ft of torque, with a 5-speed manual as standard (an automatic was offered in some years).
- RSX Type-S: about 210 horsepower and roughly 142 lb-ft of torque, paired with a 6-speed manual; a high-revving VTEC engine and sport-tuned chassis were key features.
- Transmission and weight: The manual gearing on both trims favored quick shifts and throttle response, and the RSX’s comparatively light curb weight helped translate engine output into lively on-road performance.
In short, the Type-S is the faster version, delivering a pronounced performance advantage thanks to higher horsepower and a purpose-built drivetrain, while the base RSX remains a sprightly sport compact in its own right.
Acceleration and top speed
These figures give a practical sense of how quickly the RSX can accelerate and what its top speed could be under typical conditions.
- RSX Base (manual): roughly 7.5–8.0 seconds to 60 mph; top speed around 130–140 mph depending on year and gearing.
- RSX Type-S (manual): roughly 6.0–6.9 seconds to 60 mph; top speed around 140–142 mph.
- Real-world factors: vehicle condition, maintenance, drivetrain losses, and weather can influence these times noticeably.
These numbers show that, for its time, the Type-S offered a solid speed advantage and a “hot hatch” level of straight-line speed, while the base model provided accessible speed with a more everyday feel.
Context: how it compares today
Compared with modern hot hatches and compact sports cars, the RSX’s raw numbers are modest by today’s standards, but its light weight, engaging manual gearboxes, and high-revving engine give it a distinctive, driver-focused appeal that many enthusiasts still value in the used market.
When shopping for an RSX now, buyers should assess engine condition (oil leaks, piston rings, head gasket), transmission health, suspension wear, brakes, and tires. A well-maintained Type-S can still feel quick, while the base model remains a fun, more affordable entry point into sporty driving.
Summary
The Acura RSX is fast in its class and era, with the Type-S variant standing out for performance. Today, it offers a lively and engaging drive for enthusiasts who value a lightweight chassis and a high-revving engine, though it does not match the acceleration and tech of many newer small-performance cars.
Which Acura is the fastest?
The fastest current production Acura is the 2024 Acura Integra Type S, with a top speed of 167 mph. Historically, the fastest Acura was the original NSX, which had a top speed of 191 mph. However, the TLX Type S is Acura's fastest four-door sedan, reaching a top speed of 155 mph and accelerating from 0-60 mph in around 4.5 seconds.
Current models
- Integra Type S: The fastest current Acura at 167 mph.
- TLX Type S: Fastest four-door sedan, with a top speed of 155 mph and a 0-60 mph time of 4.5 seconds.
- MDX Type S: Fastest SUV in the Acura lineup, with a 0-60 mph time of about 5.5 seconds and a top speed of 112 mph.
- ZDX Type S: The most powerful Acura ever, but with a top speed of 131 mph.
Historical models
- NSX (1990-2005): The original NSX had a top speed of up to 191 mph, making it the fastest Acura model ever produced.
- NSX (2017-2022): The second-generation NSX Type S has a top speed of 191 mph, tying with the original.
What is the fastest Acura RSX?
New Acura RSX / Integra DC5 record 8.17 @ 176mph is the new world record for the Acura RSX / Integra DC5 platform established today by Brett Bunyan running our 7475 Next GEN Sportsman turbocharger.
Is an Acura RSX a good car?
It certainly can be. Like most Acura and Honda models, the RSX is a generally reliable vehicle. However, you'll want one that is factory stock and free of modifications, with maintenance records and no evidence of powertrain abuse.
Is the RSX a rare car?
All to say the RSX, which was never all that common to begin with—in its best year Acura sold just 30,117 of them—is only going to become more special as time goes on, and as contrasts are drawn with the new RSX EV. Check out the Hagerty Media homepage so you don't miss a single story, or better yet, bookmark it.
