Acura
RSX
Acura
TSX
Acura RSX vs Acura TSX: 2011 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Acura TSX comes out ahead of the Acura RSX on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
RSX
Overall
Deeply divided sentiment for sport compact coupe, polarizing enthusiasts between passionate Type S advocates versus dismissive critics of base models. Type S (K20A2/K20Z1 engine, 200-212 hp) praised extensively for rev-happy i-VTEC engine delivering thrilling 8,000 RPM redline, precise 6-speed manual transmission, nimble handling dynamics, practical hatchback versatility, and exceptional Honda reliability enabling routine 200,000-300,000+ mile operation. However, base model (K20A3 engine, 160 hp, 5-speed manual or automatic) criticized severely as underpowered, boring to drive, and offering insufficient performance advantage over standard Civic Coupe to justify RSX badge.
Best version to buy
Type S with 6-Speed Manual (2005-2006) The 2005-2006 Type S models represent ultimate RSX specification combining 212 hp K20Z1 engine (versus 200 hp K20A2 2002-2004), improved interior materials, refined suspension tuning, and final production year collectibility. Six-speed manual transmission absolutely essential - Type S automatic extremely rare and universally condemned.
Known issues
- ⚠• Ripped/torn leather seats, driver bolster wear extremely common 100,000+ miles, leather cracks and tears exposing foam, aftermarket seat covers temporary solution, reupholstery $400-$800 per seat, replacement seats $200-$600 used market,…
TSX
Overall
Overwhelmingly enthusiastic sentiment for legendary sport sedan regarded as Honda's finest achievement, praised extensively for timeless elegant styling aging gracefully 15-20+ years later, bulletproof K24 engine enabling routine 200,000-300,000+ mile operation (documented examples exceeding 525,000 miles), engaging driving dynamics balancing sportiness and comfort creating "fast go-kart" sensation, perfect compact size filling gap between Civic and Accord, exceptional build quality with vault-like door closing feel (Japan-built VIN "J"), excellent manual transmission option (6-speed creating enthusiast following), affordable maintenance with Honda parts availability, and unique luxury features unavailable in mainstream Honda products. However, criticism includes weak low-end torque requiring high RPM driving (VTEC engagement 6,000 RPM), cramped rear seat legroom, expensive 1st generation parts (steering racks, power steering pumps, alternators not shared with US models), door speaker failures requiring aftermarket replacement, oil consumption issues (2009-2014 models), poor fuel economy versus modern standards (22-25 MPG combined typical), soft Honda paint with clear coat failure, and chronic rocker panel rust (Canada/salt belt climates). Overall consensus: 1st generation 6-speed manual (2004-2008, especially 2007-2008 facelift with upgraded K24A2 engine) represents ultimate driver's TSX achieving cult status, while 2nd generation (2009-2014) offers more refinement and features though less engaging dynamics.
Best version to buy
1st Generation 6-Speed Manual (2007-2008 facelift) The 2007-2008 facelift years with upgraded K24A2 engine (203 hp versus 200 hp pre-facelift), revised cylinder head design adding 5 hp/torque, 6-speed manual transmission, improved interior materials, steering wheel controls, power passenger seat, resolved early production issues (AC condenser, alternator, starter reliability improved) represent ultimate TSX specification. Manual transmission transforms driving experience enabling full engine exploitation and eliminating automatic transmission whining.
Known issues
- ⚠• Door speaker failures, front door speakers blow out creating distorted sound, factory speakers inadequate quality, common 60,000-100,000 miles, aftermarket replacement recommended ($200-$400 Focal Integration or similar), runs off factory…
The verdict
The Acura TSX is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Acura RSX, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Acura RSX is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Acura RSX or the Acura TSX?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Acura RSX and the Acura TSX. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Acura RSX or the Acura TSX?
The Acura TSX seats more passengers than the Acura RSX on its catalogued best-equipped version. Body type also differs: the Acura RSX is classed as a Coupe, the Acura TSX as a Sedan.
Which has better fuel economy, the Acura RSX or the Acura TSX?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Acura RSX or the Acura TSX?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but owner reports mention cost-related concerns more often for the Acura TSX than the Acura RSX. See the known issues comparison above.