S2000 bud...

You are going to hate it when the new NSX comes out.

 

The last year for the coupe (hard top) was 1994. They were produced after that, but in VERY low (like 5 a year) numbers. The newest ones (97+) had 290hp and a 6spd, but expect to pay at least $65k. So that is not really relevant here. The clutch was replaced with a better one, but the existing one was still one of the best in the world. The clutch shoud last about 50k with good driving, and is not all that expensive compared to other exotics and considering that this is about the only thing that ever goes wrong!!!

 

both cars are very reliable by sports car standards and relatively inexpensive to maintain.

as a rule, the older car (a 1992 NSX will be nearly 12 years old in 22 months) is going to be more expensive to maintain. It's got more time and wear and tear against it. Nothing you can do about it.

also, keep in mind that you may have a very hard time finding a lender for a car of that vintage. and, if you do find a lender, don't expect new car financing rates.

on the flip side, an nsx in good condition with low miles of that vintage will basically have all the depreciation out of it by then. you'll lose value, especially if you abuse the car, but not anywhere near the same rate as you would a new car.

 

osugrad97, that is what I had heard about the ealry clutch. As you suggest, for me the cars would have to be of similar value (unless I run in to a lot of money and could afford a new NSX ) so pre 1993 is what I am interested in when comparing an NSX and an Stook.

I would get a coupe NSX if I were to choose an NSX. You can still special order coupes, but in 1991 and 1992 there were only coupes and that works out well for me.

Pepe, that must have been tough to choose which car to drive to work . I sympathize.

NS2000X

 

91-94 NSX's are all coupes with black tops regardless of color. 97 later coupes are all special ordered thus are rare. 99 Zanardi edition are all coupes (49 of them).

Pre-97 clutches are less expensive to replace (dual clutch vs. single clutch)

97 later have 6sp and better gearing ratio.

 

Drive both. Then remember:
1) loan cost(unless you pay cash) will likely be at a higher interest rate for an older used car than a new one.

2) Maintainence costs will be higher for the NSX
3) depreciation will be higher in the s2000
4) Insurance costs? I don't know this one, but my guess is the NSX will have higher insurance costs
Good luck. 2 great cars! Keep us popsted- this topic comes up frequently on the board, but I don't recall seing people post their impressions after they've gone with the NSX

 

Having daily driven, tracked and autocrossed both (sometimes back to back), my suggestion is to go with the S2000 - it is more fun as a daily driver and easier to drive at the limit. It feels more nimble and provides more feedback and an NSX. The NSX is quieter and a better cruiser.

That said, a used NSX that was well looked after is as or more reliable than a new S2000. Though you still may have some of the maintenance costs of an older car. nevertheless, most maintenance costs are in line with those of other Honda/Acura products (minor exceptions being valve adjustment costs, bodywork and clutch replacements).

Hope this helps... ideally, drive both and decide. If you find yourself in the Boston area, come look some of us up.