Whats faster, Honda or Acura?
In broad terms, Acura generally offers faster performance in its modern lineup, especially with the Type S models and the NSX. The Honda Civic Type R is exceptionally quick for a mainstream performance hatch, but Acura’s current performance-focused vehicles typically deliver higher straight-line speed and quicker acceleration overall.
Understanding the performance landscape
The Honda and Acura brands sit under the same parent company, but Acura’s emphasis in recent years has been on high-performance variants (Type S) and a dedicated high-performance hybrid (NSX). Honda’s most prominent performance model today is the Civic Type R, which remains one of the quickest hot hatches in its class. The comparison often hinges on whether you value pure speed in a straight line, track capability, or everyday practicality.
Head-to-head numbers: quick reference
Below are representative performance figures for the fastest models currently in each brand’s lineup to illustrate how they stack up in straight-line speed. Figures are approximate and can vary by model year, drivetrain, and testing conditions.
- Honda Civic Type R (Honda): 0-60 mph in about 5.0 seconds; top speed around 169 mph (272 km/h).
- TLX Type S (Acura): 0-60 mph around 3.3–3.6 seconds; top speed about 168 mph (270 km/h).
- NSX Type S (Acura): 0-60 mph around 2.9–3.0 seconds; top speed around 191 mph (307 km/h).
These figures show that Acura’s performance-focused models generally achieve faster launches and higher top speeds than the Civic Type R, with the NSX Type S representing the peak of speed in the Acura lineup. However, the Civic Type R remains a top-tier performer among non-luxury hot hatches.
Model-by-model perspective
Honda: Civic Type R
The Civic Type R is Honda’s benchmark for high-performance engineering in a compact, front-drive package. It emphasizes sharp handling, strong turbocharged power, and a high-revving character that appeals to driving enthusiasts. Its 5.0-second 0-60 time and 169 mph top speed place it among the quickest hot hatches, though it trails the top-tier Acura performance models in raw acceleration and top speed.
Acura: TLX Type S
The TLX Type S slots into the brand’s sport-luxury category, combining a turbocharged V6 with refined handling and all-wheel drive in most configurations. It delivers brisk acceleration (roughly 3.3–3.6 seconds 0-60) and a top speed around 168 mph, making it faster off the line than the Civic Type R in most tests while offering a more comfortable daily-drive experience.
Acura: NSX Type S
The NSX Type S is Acura’s flagship performance machine, a mid-engine hybrid that blends combustion power with electric torque. With a 0-60 time near 3 seconds and a top speed near 191 mph, it represents the pinnacle of speed in the current Honda/Acura lineup, far surpassing both the Civic Type R and the TLX Type S in straight-line performance.
Practical takeaways for buyers
Where speed matters most
If your primary concern is straight-line acceleration and top speed, Acura’s Type S models and especially the NSX Type S are typically faster than most Honda alternatives. The TLX Type S and NSX Type S offer stronger performance credentials than the Civic Type R in a variety of conditions, though the Civic Type R remains a standout in the hot-hatch class for enthusiasts who prefer a pure, manual-feel experience (note: recent Civic Type R models have moved to a multi-function automatic/dual-clutch setup in some markets, depending on trim).
Choosing by use case
For daily practicality with sporty performance, the TLX Type S provides a strong balance of speed, comfort, and technology. For those chasing track-day bragging rights with a more extreme setup, the NSX Type S is the benchmark within Acura. If you want a blistering hot hatch with a more affordable entry point and a focus on handling, the Civic Type R is hard to beat in its segment.
Summary
Across the current Honda and Acura lineups, Acura generally offers faster performance through its Type S variants and the NSX. The Civic Type R is remarkably quick for a non-luxury car and remains a formidable rival in its class, but the NSX Type S ultimately stands as the fastest model in this comparison. Buyers should weigh not only raw speed but also drivetrain layout, daily usability, and how much performance-oriented technology fits their driving preferences.
