I am looking into purchasing 2002+ NSX. I am scheduled to test drive the one in Marin Acura this week. Anything to look out for? What can I expect? How would it compare to similarly priced ($60K-$70K) newer sports cars? My understanding is that the NSX comes with TCS (not stability control system). How intrusive is it? Is the rear of the NSX twitchy?

Any inputs would be greatly appreciated. Thanks guys.

 

For some people the NSX is a modern day classic. It has always been a benchmark in terms of handling, but also overall build quality and reliability --inside and out.

Probably the best place to go would be the nsxprime.com forum. You will find the best answers to your questions there.

I would think that the NSX would outhandle just about any sports car that might be on your list, and be more comfortable too irregardless of the traction control. It is sometimes compared to the Porsche Cayman, although the smaller Cayman is probably slightly more tossable. The midengine layout may take some time to get used to, but it is a unique experience I hear.

If you are looking for the best handling NSX you might also consider pre-2002 models. The pre-97 models are the lightest (by 100 to 200 pounds), but dont have the larger engine and targa top roof.

 

I have never spun out on the NSX at local auto cross events.

I have never had any mechanical failures after 3+ years of ownership and daily driven to work and multiple road trips.

Transmission was super smooth.

Tan

 

I drive my bros one in awhile nsx and its a blast to drive I never really pushed it to the limits but it handles well. I still like the way the S drives but maybe im more used to it .

It does get a lot of attention especially when I took it to school I made friends I didn't even know about. Hope fully in a few years I will be able to get one.

heres a few pix of the night he got it shipped over

 

My post really won't help you with advice, but just want to share my experience...

A friend had an 01 NSX, Monaco Blue, mint inside out. I loved the car. The day finally came, where I could get a ride in it. Never thought I could have so much fun in the passenger seat.

The whole experience was amazing! The seating was perfect, I loved the way you almost 'lay' in the seats. My favorite thing of all.... The engine, and the noise it was making. Hearing that thing behind me made me excited like a little kid.

Either way, it's an amazing car and I plan on picking up a Long Beach Blue Pearl NA2 in the next few years.

Good luck with everything!

 

So you want to go from a 8 year old played out car to a 18 year old played out car that costs 2X more?

 

NSXprime is where you can have all your questions answered and more. Marin Acura has a decent reputation within the community so that should help.

In 3+ years and 15,000 miles of NSX ownership I only had one mechanical issue on my 1998 NSX. The rear bank 02 sensor failed.

The motor and transmission are awesome. The seating position is awesome. The efficiency is awesome (I got 27 mpg on a 2,000 long weekend to NSXPO in AZ with my Dad a few years back and routinely got 20 mpg in 50/50 mixed driving). The brakes aren't as good as modern sports cars and the NSX lacks some amenities.

But I sold mine for damn near what I paid for it and my guess is that resale will continue to be strong.

Great cars. My only real dislikes were the lack of cabin storage space (silly, but honestly... not having enough space for your wallet, sunglasses and garage door opener gets old after a while), and the attention the car got. Mine was black and as an uber-anal car guy, I can't tell you how many times I came out to fingerprints all over the car from some curious folks checking out the car.

 

Yeh... you should consider a 12-year old car that's held together by glue and folds into an oragmi ball when it's hit by a large June Bug!

Sorry... couldn't help the easy jab.

 

hmm .. not sure nsxs are played out.

I hardly see them around

 

Just out of curiosity, on what basis do you make this statement? You're saying that in eighteen years no manufacturer has been able to exceed the NSX's handling despite significant increases in chassis stiffness, damper technology, etc. That's a bold statement.