Supercar Showdown: Ford GT, Acura NSX Face Off at 2015 Detroit Auto Show

Jan 13, 2015 01:00 PM EST | Jordan Ecarma

Ford and Acura have both rolled out high-performance future supercars at this year's North American International Auto Show, with Ford launching its all-new GT and Honda unveiling the next-generation Acura NSX.

The two performance models both run on V-6 engines, but how similar are they? 

2016 Ford GT

The two-door coupe has rear-wheel drive and runs on a mid-mounted, twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V-6 engine that generates more than 600 horsepower. The V-6 is paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle that offers "near-instantaneous gear changes and exceptional driver control," according to the automaker.

Both the GT and the NSX integrate several lightweight materials for the frame. Ford's supercar uses carbon fiber and aluminum for improved handling and efficiency, while the NSX has an aluminum frame and additionally implements lightweight steels and carbon fiber.  

Of course, both supercars will be pricey. Produced from 2004 to 2006, the Ford GT started at $140,000. When Honda ceased production of the NSX in 2005, it was priced at $90,000; the upcoming 2016 model will likely start around $155,000, according to the Detroit Free Press.

2016 Acura NSX

The all-wheel-drive NSX is equipped with a twin-turbocharged DOHC V-6 engine with a nine-speed dual clutch transmission.

Probably the biggest distinction between the GT and the NSX is that the latter is a hybrid that holds both the turbocharged V-6 and three electric motors, one for each front wheel as well as a third placed with the mid-mounted engine. The new NSX gets more than 550 horsepower, according to the Detroit News

The production version of the supercar is about 3 inches longer than the 2013 NSX Concept at 176 inches, while its width grew an inch as well to accommodate the powertrain, giving the model a slightly more cab-forward build.

The NSX will hit the scene first since Honda plans to start manufacturing the two-seater in Ohio this fall, while the GT won't go into production until late 2016. Starting this summer, Honda will take custom orders for the Acura NSX, with deliveries expected late in the year.  

Auto World News is on the ground and covering the 2015 North American International Auto Show. Stay with us this week for up-to-the-minute coverage of all the action in Detroit, and follow us on Facebook and Twitter.

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