Japan vs Germany — 1990 vs 1987
| NSX Type R (NA1) | 959 Komfort | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 450 hp |
| Torque | 224 lb-ft | 369 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,977 cc | 2,849 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 3.6 sec |
| Top Speed | 174 mph | 197 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.4 sec | 11.8 sec |
| Weight | 2,712 lbs | 3,439 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,530 mm | 2,272 mm |
| Length | 4,430 mm | 4,260 mm |
| Units Produced | 18,000 | 292 |
| Original MSRP | $89,000 | $225,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $3,000,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 10/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 9/10 |
The 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort emerges ahead in most objective measures, offering more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1) counters with lighter weight, better value, but the numbers favor its rival. Still, both are remarkable machines, and the final choice often comes down to which driving experience speaks to you.
Putting the 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1) against the 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort is a comparison that enthusiasts have debated for decades. Each car reflects distinct design philosophies shaped by different automotive cultures — Japan versus Germany. The 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort holds a clear advantage in raw power with 450 hp compared to 290 hp, a 160-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Honda NSX uses a V6 DOHC VTEC (C30A/C32B) displacing 2,977 cc, while the Porsche 959 relies on a Flat-6 DOHC 24V Twin-Turbocharged with 2,849 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort edges ahead at 3.6 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. The Honda NSX carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 727 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 292 units built, the 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort is considerably scarcer than the Honda NSX's 18,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1987 Porsche 959 Komfort commands a significant premium over the 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.