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Honda vs. Everyone: 50 Legendary Honda Showdowns

Cameron Eittreim February 6, 2025

Honda has built a reputation for crafting sports cars that punch above their weight. From high-revving VTEC screamers to precision-balanced performance machines, Honda’s lineup has gone toe-to-toe with some of the biggest names in the game. Here are 50 legendary matchups between Honda sports cars and their fiercest competition.

Honda NSX vs. Ferrari 348

The first-gen NSX redefined the supercar segment with an all-aluminum body, precise handling, and Honda’s F1-derived tech. Ferrari’s 348 was stunning but flawed. Honda’s reliability, usability, and Ayrton Senna-tuned chassis made the NSX a giant slayer. While the Ferrari had the brand prestige and a V8 growl, the NSX proved that a supercar could be reliable.

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Honda Civic Type R (EK9) vs. Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk4

The original Civic Type R was a lightweight, high-revving masterpiece, while the Golf GTI focused on turbocharged grunt. Honda’s B16B screamed to 8,400 RPM, offering razor-sharp responses that left the heavier, softer GTI trailing on a twisty road. Though the Golf GTI had everyday usability and torque advantage.

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Honda S2000 vs. BMW Z4 M Roadster

Honda’s S2000 packed a 9,000 RPM redline, razor-sharp handling, and a legendary F20C engine. The BMW Z4 M had brute force and a sonorous inline-six. But on a track, the S2000’s balance and precision often made it the more rewarding drive. While the BMW had more torque and luxury.

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Honda Integra Type R (DC2) vs. Nissan 240SX (S14)

With a screaming B18C and race-tuned suspension, the Integra Type R remains an icon. The Nissan 240SX was a drift legend but lacked the raw precision of the ITR. On a track, the Honda’s lightweight agility and high-revving engine proved superior. However, for those looking for tail-happy fun, the Nissan’s RWD setup made it a drift favorite.

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Honda Civic Type R (FK8) vs. Ford Focus RS

The FK8 Civic Type R brought turbocharged madness with front-wheel drive grip that defied physics. The Focus RS had AWD and more power, but on tight circuits, the Civic’s superior chassis balance made it the sharper, more precise weapon. While the Focus RS was more powerful and playful, the Civic’s precision and reliability won long-term fans.

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Honda NSX (NC1) vs. Acura NSX (First Gen)

Old-school purists love the first-gen NSX for its raw connection, while the modern NC1 adds hybrid power and supercar speed. While the new NSX is faster, many argue that the original’s analog charm delivers the more engaging experience. The modern NSX excels in speed and efficiency, but the first-gen NSX remains a timeless icon.

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Honda CR-Z vs. Toyota MR2 Spyder

The CR-Z aimed to blend hybrid efficiency with sportiness, but it struggled to match the pure driving fun of the MR2 Spyder. The MR2’s mid-engine layout and light weight made it the better weekend toy, while the CR-Z won on practicality. The CR-Z’s hybrid drivetrain held it back from true sports car status.

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Honda S2000 CR vs. Porsche Boxster S (986)

Honda’s hardcore S2000 Club Racer sharpened the handling, but could it take down Porsche’s Boxster S? The Honda had more personality, but Porsche’s mid-engine balance and premium build quality gave it the long-term edge. While the S2000 CR was a track monster, the Boxster S offered a more refined and versatile package.

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Honda Civic Si (EM1) vs. Subaru Impreza 2.5RS

The EM1 Civic Si was all about lightweight fun and a high-revving VTEC engine. Subaru’s 2.5RS offered AWD traction but lacked the same rev-happy charm. On dry pavement, the Civic was the driver’s choice. The Impreza, however, had an edge in bad weather conditions and rally-inspired fun.

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Honda Accord Euro R (CL7) vs. BMW 330i (E46)

The Accord Euro R combined a high-revving K20A engine with a lightweight chassis, making it one of the most exciting front-wheel-drive sedans of its time. The BMW 330i, with its silky-smooth inline-six and rear-wheel drive layout, brought European refinement and balance to the table. While the BMW had a more premium feel and better weight distribution.

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Honda Civic Type R (FL5) vs. Hyundai Elantra N

Honda’s latest Civic Type R refines the formula with a more sophisticated chassis and a turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that delivers track-ready performance. The Elantra N, Hyundai’s feisty contender, brings its own aggressive tuning and torque-heavy turbocharged setup. While the Elantra N offers engaging handling and a lower price point.

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Honda Integra Type R (DC5) vs. Mazda RX-8

The DC5 Integra Type R brought Honda’s high-revving K20A engine and a finely tuned chassis, delivering precise handling and an engaging driving experience. The Mazda RX-8 countered with a lightweight rotary engine and near-perfect weight distribution. While the RX-8’s unique rotary design offered smooth revving fun.

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Honda S660 vs. Daihatsu Copen GR Sport

The Honda S660 and Daihatsu Copen GR Sport embody the lightweight, fun-to-drive kei car ethos. The mid-engine S660 offers a more balanced chassis and precise handling, while the Copen GR Sport counters with a front-engine layout and turbocharged power. While the Copen is easier to modify for extra performance.

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Honda Civic Si (FG2) vs. Scion tC

The FG2-generation Civic Si delivered high-revving VTEC excitement with its 2.0-liter K20Z3 engine and a six-speed manual transmission. Meanwhile, the Scion tC focused on a more torque-heavy, accessible driving experience with a 2.4-liter engine. While the tC had practicality and low-end grunt, the Civic Si’s razor-sharp handling and engaging powerband made it the enthusiast’s pick.

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Honda CR-X SiR vs. Toyota AE86 Corolla

The Honda CR-X SiR was a lightweight, high-revving pocket rocket, featuring a B16A VTEC engine that delivered instant throttle response and exceptional handling. Meanwhile, the Toyota AE86 Corolla was a rear-wheel-drive legend known for its drift-happy nature and balanced chassis. While the AE86 had an iconic motorsports presence, the CR-X SiR provided more efficiency.

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Honda Fit RS vs. Ford Fiesta ST

The Honda Fit RS takes the brand’s reputation for nimbleness and injects a sportier edge, featuring a rev-happy engine and lightweight chassis. The Ford Fiesta ST, on the other hand, is a turbocharged hot hatch with impressive torque and a playful nature. While the Fiesta ST boasts superior straight-line speed, the Fit RS excels in agility and reliability, making it the purist’s pick for an engaging daily driver.

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Honda Fit RS vs. Ford Fiesta ST

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Honda S2000 AP2 vs. Nissan 350Z

The Honda S2000 AP2 refined the original’s formula with a torquier F22C engine and better suspension tuning, making it an even sharper track tool. The Nissan 350Z countered with a muscular VQ35DE V6 and a rear-wheel-drive layout that delivered effortless power. While the 350Z had more low-end grunt and a grand touring appeal.

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Honda Civic Si (EP3) vs. Mini Cooper S (R53)

The Honda Civic Si (EP3) introduced a high-revving K20A3 engine paired with a six-speed manual transmission, offering a balanced mix of performance and practicality. The Mini Cooper S (R53), on the other hand, delivered a supercharged punch with its 1.6-liter inline-four. While the Mini had an edge in low-end torque and playful handling.

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Honda Prelude VTEC vs. Nissan Silvia (S13)

The Honda Prelude VTEC brought a high-revving H22A engine and advanced handling dynamics with its four-wheel steering system. The Nissan Silvia S13, on the other hand, was a rear-wheel-drive drift icon with turbocharged power in select variants. While the Silvia had the advantage in tuning potential and drift capability, the Prelude VTEC excelled in grip, reliability, and an engaging front-wheel-drive experience that made it a well-rounded sports coupe.

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Honda Beat vs. Suzuki Cappuccino

The Honda Beat and Suzuki Cappuccino are two of Japan’s most iconic kei sports cars, built for fun and agility over raw power. The Beat, with its mid-engine layout and naturally aspirated three-cylinder engine, offers a go-kart-like experience. The Cappuccino counters with a front-engine, rear-wheel-drive setup and a turbocharged engine for a peppier feel.

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Honda NSX Type R (NA2) vs. Dodge Viper GTS

The Honda NSX Type R (NA2) refined the supercar formula with a lightweight, track-focused design, featuring a naturally aspirated V6 and razor-sharp handling. The Dodge Viper GTS, a brute-force powerhouse, packed a massive V10 with raw, unfiltered aggression. While the Viper had sheer speed and muscle, the NSX Type R offered precision, balance, and a level of finesse that made it a weapon on technical circuits.

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Honda Civic Type R (FD2) vs. Renault Megane RS

The FD2 Civic Type R, exclusive to Japan, brought a naturally aspirated K20A engine, a stiffened chassis, and razor-sharp steering. The Renault Megane RS, a European hot hatch legend, countered with turbocharged torque and a track-tuned suspension. While the Megane RS offered brutal mid-range power and front-wheel-drive grip.

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Honda Accord Coupe V6 vs. Toyota Solara V6

The Honda Accord Coupe V6 and Toyota Solara V6 were two of the last sporty front-wheel-drive coupes aimed at buyers who wanted comfort with a dash of performance. The Accord’s J-series V6 delivered smooth power and a responsive chassis, making it more engaging to drive.

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Honda CR-Z Mugen vs. Fiat 500 Abarth

The Honda CR-Z Mugen aimed to inject more performance into Honda’s hybrid coupe with an aggressive body kit, stiffer suspension, and a slight power bump. The Fiat 500 Abarth, on the other hand, was a turbocharged pocket rocket with playful handling and an unmistakable exhaust note. While the 500 Abarth had more outright power and a feisty personality.

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Honda Civic Si (FA5) vs. MazdaSpeed3

The Honda Civic Si (FA5) featured a high-revving K20Z3 engine and a well-balanced chassis, making it an engaging front-wheel-drive performer. The MazdaSpeed3, on the other hand, packed a turbocharged punch with a 2.3-liter DISI engine, offering significantly more torque. While the MazdaSpeed3 was quicker in a straight line.

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Honda Integra GSR (DC2) vs. Mitsubishi Lancer GSR

The Honda Integra GSR (DC2) brought VTEC excitement with its B18C1 engine, offering a high-revving experience and sharp handling. The Mitsubishi Lancer GSR, though not as well known as its Evolution siblings, packed turbocharged power and all-wheel drive grip. While the Lancer GSR had better traction and straight-line speed.

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Honda Del Sol Si vs. Toyota Paseo

The Honda Del Sol Si, with its targa-top design and high-revving engine, offered a fun, lightweight driving experience. The Toyota Paseo, a reliable and fuel-efficient coupe, was more practical but lacked excitement. While the Paseo excelled in economy, the Del Sol Si delivered a more engaging and dynamic ride.

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Honda City Turbo II vs. Renault 5 Turbo

The Honda City Turbo II, a Kei-car-sized hot hatch, packed a turbocharged 1.2L engine and Honda’s legendary engineering. The Renault 5 Turbo, a homologation rally monster, brought mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive insanity. While the Renault dominated in raw power and rally pedigree, the City Turbo II’s lightweight agility and innovative design made it an underdog favorite for spirited urban driving.

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Honda S500 vs. MG Midget

The Honda S500, Honda’s first-ever production car, was a lightweight, high-revving roadster with chain-driven rear wheels and a motorcycle-inspired 531cc engine. The MG Midget, a British classic, brought simple, no-frills open-top motoring with a more conventional four-cylinder setup. While the MG Midget was charming and had a longer legacy.

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Honda Civic 1.5 VTi vs. Peugeot 106 Rallye

The Honda Civic 1.5 VTi was a lightweight, high-revving hot hatch that featured Honda’s legendary VTEC system, offering a thrilling top-end punch. The Peugeot 106 Rallye, a stripped-down, rally-inspired hatchback, countered with an ultra-light chassis and a peppy 1.6L engine. While the Peugeot excelled in nimbleness and raw driving feel, the Civic 1.5 VTi’s superior reliability, high-revving excitement, and practicality made it the more versatile performer.

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Honda Civic Si (9th Gen) vs. Volkswagen Jetta GLI

The 9th-gen Honda Civic Si featured a high-revving K24Z7 engine, a six-speed manual, and a well-balanced chassis, making it a favorite among enthusiasts. The Volkswagen Jetta GLI, on the other hand, brought turbocharged torque and European refinement to the sport sedan segment.

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Honda Accord Type S vs. Alfa Romeo 159

The Honda Accord Type S blended Japanese engineering with European sport sedan appeal, featuring a rev-happy K24 engine and sharp handling. The Alfa Romeo 159, on the other hand, delivered Italian flair with a stylish design and a range of torquey engines. While the 159 had charm and an engaging chassis, the Accord Type S stood out for its reliability, high-revving nature, and precision handling, making it the more dependable driver’s car.

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Honda Civic Type R (FN2) vs. Vauxhall Astra VXR

The Honda Civic Type R (FN2) continued the hot hatch legacy with a high-revving naturally aspirated K20 engine and a firm chassis, optimized for spirited driving. The Vauxhall Astra VXR, in contrast, delivered turbocharged power and torque in a more aggressive package. While the Astra VXR had the edge in straight-line speed, the FN2’s balanced handling, precise steering, and reliability made it the choice for those who valued a purer driving experience.

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Honda Jazz RS vs. Suzuki Swift Sport

The Honda Jazz RS and Suzuki Swift Sport are two of the most fun-to-drive small hatchbacks in their class. The Jazz RS features a rev-happy engine, agile handling, and Honda’s legendary reliability. The Swift Sport counters with a lightweight chassis, a peppy turbocharged engine, and sharp steering.

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Honda S2000 GT vs. Lotus Elise

The Honda S2000 GT and Lotus Elise both prioritize driver engagement but take different approaches. The S2000 GT packs a high-revving 2.2L engine, offering a thrilling balance of power and control. The Elise, with its ultra-lightweight chassis and mid-engine layout, is a precision scalpel on twisty roads. While the Elise delivers a more raw and connected experience, the S2000 GT’s reliability, power, and usability make it a better all-rounder for spirited driving.

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Honda Civic Type R (EP3) vs. Ford Escort RS Cosworth

The Honda Civic Type R (EP3) delivered a high-revving K20A engine and a stiffened chassis, making it a joy to drive on twisty roads. The Ford Escort RS Cosworth, a turbocharged, all-wheel-drive rally legend, countered with explosive power and rally-bred dynamics. While the Escort RS Cosworth was unbeatable in rough conditions, the EP3’s lightweight build, precise steering, and legendary VTEC.

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Honda CR-Z GT vs. Toyota Yaris GRMN

The Honda CR-Z GT aimed to bring hybrid technology to the performance world, featuring a lightweight chassis and a six-speed manual gearbox. The Toyota Yaris GRMN, in contrast, is a purebred hot hatch with rally-inspired DNA and a supercharged 1.8L engine. While the CR-Z GT prioritized efficiency and balance, the Yaris GRMN’s aggressive tuning, powerful engine, and track-ready suspension made it the superior performance machine.

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Honda Accord Euro R (CL1) vs. Subaru Legacy B4 RSK

The Honda Accord Euro R (CL1) featured a high-revving H22A engine and a lightweight chassis, making it a thrilling sport sedan with precision handling. The Subaru Legacy B4 RSK, equipped with a turbocharged EJ20 engine and all-wheel drive, provided impressive power and grip in all conditions. While the Legacy had an edge in straight-line speed and year-round usability, the Accord Euro R had a rev-happy nature.

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Honda Civic Si (7th Gen) vs. Chevrolet Cobalt SS

The Honda Civic Si (7th Gen) introduced a more refined take on the sporty Civic formula, featuring a high-revving K20A3 engine and a balanced chassis. The Chevrolet Cobalt SS, on the other hand, brought turbocharged or supercharged power with brute force acceleration. Honda has never built a pure performance product like the Cobalt SS.

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Honda Civic Type R (FK2) vs. Seat Leon Cupra R

The Honda Civic Type R (FK2) took the hot hatch segment by storm with its aggressive turbocharged K20C1 engine and precise handling. The Seat Leon Cupra R, a European favorite, brought a balance of turbocharged power and refined dynamics. While the Cupra R offered impressive daily usability and a more subtle design, the FK2’s razor-sharp steering, track-ready suspension, and raw driving excitement made it the ultimate pick for enthusiasts.

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Honda CR-Z RR vs. Smart Roadster Brabus

The Honda CR-Z RR was a concept that showcased what a true performance hybrid could be, with an aggressive aerodynamic design and enhanced power output. The Smart Roadster Brabus, on the other hand, was a lightweight, turbocharged micro-roadster built for pure driving fun. While the Roadster Brabus had nimbleness and European charm.

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Honda Integra Type S vs. Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V

The Honda Integra Type S offered a high-revving K20Z1 engine and sharp handling, making it a refined yet thrilling front-wheel-drive coupe. The Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V countered with a torquey QR25DE engine and a stiffer suspension setup. While the Sentra SE-R had decent straight-line speed, the Integra Type S excelled in chassis dynamics, balance, and reliability, making it the superior driver’s car.

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Honda NSX-R (NA1) vs. Ferrari F355

The Honda NSX-R (NA1) was the purest iteration of Honda’s legendary supercar, shedding weight and refining aerodynamics to enhance performance. The Ferrari F355, with its high-revving V8 and seductive styling, brought Italian flair to the battle. While the F355 had more power and a screaming exhaust note, the NSX-R’s balance, reliability, and razor-sharp handling.

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Honda Civic Hybrid vs. Toyota Prius GT

2025 Honda Civic Sport Touring Hybrid Sedan — Motor Show

The Honda Civic Hybrid and Toyota Prius GT represent two different takes on hybrid efficiency. The Civic Hybrid prioritizes a more traditional driving experience, blending Honda’s reliability with fuel economy. The Prius GT, with its sportier suspension and unique styling, adds a performance edge. While the Prius GT offers slightly better efficiency.

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Honda Civic Type R (FL1) vs. Hyundai i30 N

The Honda Civic Type R (FL1) refines the legendary formula with a turbocharged K20C1 engine, a well-balanced chassis, and improved aerodynamics. The Hyundai i30 N counters with a turbocharged 2.0L four-cylinder and European hot hatch tuning. While the i30 N offers strong mid-range torque and playful handling, the FL1’s precision engineering, superior suspension tuning, and track-focused design make it the ultimate front-wheel-drive performance machine.

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Honda Accord V6 Coupe vs. Nissan Altima V6 Coupe

The Honda Accord V6 Coupe and Nissan Altima V6 Coupe represented two of the last mid-size coupes with strong, naturally aspirated V6 engines. The Accord’s J35 V6 delivered smooth, linear power with an available manual transmission, making it a true driver’s car. The Altima V6, with its 3.5L VQ-series engine, had slightly more power but was let down by its CVT transmission.

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Honda S660 Modulo X vs. Subaru R1 STI

The Honda S660 Modulo X is a refined version of Honda’s beloved kei sports car, featuring aerodynamic enhancements and a sharper suspension setup. The Subaru R1 STI, a rare performance-tuned kei car, counters with AWD grip and a punchy turbocharged engine. While the R1 STI offers unique all-weather capability, the S660 Modulo X delivers a purer, mid-engine driving experience that makes it the enthusiast’s choice for precision handling and agility.

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Honda Civic Type R Mugen vs. BMW M135i

The Honda Civic Type R Mugen took the already potent Civic Type R and added bespoke aerodynamic enhancements, a more aggressive tune, and weight reduction. The BMW M135i, with its turbocharged inline-six and all-wheel drive, delivered European refinement and raw power. While the M135i had a torque advantage and premium interior.

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Honda NSX Type S vs. Lamborghini Huracán EVO

Honda’s final NSX evolution, the Type S, brings hybrid-assisted supercar performance. The Huracán EVO counters with a naturally aspirated V10 and AWD. While the Lamborghini is an exotic beast, the NSX Type S showcases Honda’s engineering brilliance with a balanced, cutting-edge design. The Huracán EVO dominates in straight-line speed, but the NSX Type S delivers a precision-focused, driver-involved experience.

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Honda vs. Everyone: 50 Legendary Honda Showdowns

Honda NSX vs. Ferrari 348

Honda Civic Type R (EK9) vs. Volkswagen Golf GTI Mk4

Honda S2000 vs. BMW Z4 M Roadster

Honda Integra Type R (DC2) vs. Nissan 240SX (S14)

Honda Civic Type R (FK8) vs. Ford Focus RS

Honda NSX (NC1) vs. Acura NSX (First Gen)

Honda CR-Z vs. Toyota MR2 Spyder

Honda S2000 CR vs. Porsche Boxster S (986)

Honda Civic Si (EM1) vs. Subaru Impreza 2.5RS

Honda Accord Euro R (CL7) vs. BMW 330i (E46)

Honda Civic Type R (FL5) vs. Hyundai Elantra N

Honda Integra Type R (DC5) vs. Mazda RX-8

Honda S660 vs. Daihatsu Copen GR Sport

Honda Civic Si (FG2) vs. Scion tC

Honda CR-X SiR vs. Toyota AE86 Corolla

Honda Fit RS vs. Ford Fiesta ST

Honda Fit RS vs. Ford Fiesta ST

Honda S2000 AP2 vs. Nissan 350Z

Honda Civic Si (EP3) vs. Mini Cooper S (R53)

Honda Prelude VTEC vs. Nissan Silvia (S13)

Honda Beat vs. Suzuki Cappuccino

Honda NSX Type R (NA2) vs. Dodge Viper GTS

Honda Civic Type R (FD2) vs. Renault Megane RS

Honda Accord Coupe V6 vs. Toyota Solara V6

Honda CR-Z Mugen vs. Fiat 500 Abarth

Honda Civic Si (FA5) vs. MazdaSpeed3

Honda Integra GSR (DC2) vs. Mitsubishi Lancer GSR

Honda Del Sol Si vs. Toyota Paseo

Honda City Turbo II vs. Renault 5 Turbo

Honda S500 vs. MG Midget

Honda Civic 1.5 VTi vs. Peugeot 106 Rallye

Honda Civic Si (9th Gen) vs. Volkswagen Jetta GLI

Honda Accord Type S vs. Alfa Romeo 159

Honda Civic Type R (FN2) vs. Vauxhall Astra VXR

Honda Jazz RS vs. Suzuki Swift Sport

Honda S2000 GT vs. Lotus Elise

Honda Civic Type R (EP3) vs. Ford Escort RS Cosworth

Honda CR-Z GT vs. Toyota Yaris GRMN

Honda Accord Euro R (CL1) vs. Subaru Legacy B4 RSK

Honda Civic Si (7th Gen) vs. Chevrolet Cobalt SS

Honda Civic Type R (FK2) vs. Seat Leon Cupra R

Honda CR-Z RR vs. Smart Roadster Brabus

Honda Integra Type S vs. Nissan Sentra SE-R Spec V

Honda NSX-R (NA1) vs. Ferrari F355

Honda Civic Hybrid vs. Toyota Prius GT

Honda Civic Type R (FL1) vs. Hyundai i30 N

Honda Accord V6 Coupe vs. Nissan Altima V6 Coupe

Honda S660 Modulo X vs. Subaru R1 STI

Honda Civic Type R Mugen vs. BMW M135i

Honda NSX Type S vs. Lamborghini Huracán EVO

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