Can an executive saloon be quicker than a supercar? It depends on a number of factors, but the fact that we can genuinely ask that question proves just how much technology has evolved.
On one side, you have two of the finest performance saloons from Europe, the Mercedes-AMG E63 S and BMW M5 Competition, and on the other, the Honda (Acura in North America) NSX, in a drag race conducted by TopGear’s Rory Reid. The show’s former co-host jumped behind the wheel of the Japanese hybrid supercar, confident that the vehicle will cross the finish line first.
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But alas, the NSX didn’t win, and in fact, it was beaten by both the E63 S and M5 Competition. It could have went either way, though, as all three rides have almost identical official manufacturer 0-62 mph (0-100 km/h) acceleration times: 3.3 seconds in the NSX and M5 and 3.4 seconds in the E63.
Screenshots via TG/Youtube
The Honda is the lightest of the pack, weighing 1,725 kg (3,803 lbs), whereas the Bimmer weighs 140 kg (309 lbs) more. At 1,880 kg (4,145 lbs), the AMG is the heaviest of the bunch.
Now, as far as sheer power goes, the balance tilts in favor of the M5. Its 4.4-liter twin-turbo V8 makes 616 hp (625 PS / 460 kW), while the 4.0-liter twin-turbo V8 of the E63 S delivers 603 hp (612 PS / 450 kW). The NSX’s 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 works together with three electric motors to push out 573 hp (581 PS / 427 kW).
Now, we know that the supercar came in third, but which one was the big winner in this unofficial drag race? That’s for you to find out by watching the video.