I know there is a strong contingent for turbo nsx's,i was hoping to hear from those of you who believe that the nsx should be NA only, and why?
I am not sure why you are asking for one side of the story only- but I will give you my perspective anyway.
Personally, I have never been troubled about the theoretical loss of "reliability" attributed to modified cars. In my case the combination of added performance (and I will admit, in most cases potential performance as in most instances I am driving well below the threshold of the stock car- never mind the modified one) and uniqueness or personalization of the finished product is well worth it.
But I am a "car guy" i enjoy looking at the mechanicals, electronics and braided ss lines - and spend many an hour hanging out in the garage with my car friends talking motors and mods.
Additionally I am fortunate to have several cars so- I am not sure I would feel the same about a car I drove every day or needed for work.
Although I have never considered my self a purist with regards to my cars I did leave my NSX bone stock for 6 years (I purchased mine with under 8k miles)- I did not buy it for its all out performance - but always thought it could probably do better with its very high performance chassis- not a unique thought.
After turbocharging will Angus's kit - and the addition of various gauges, RPS clutch and various suspension wheel/tire upgrades how do I feel?
Immensely satisfied!
Its true, I have to be more exact in my driving, I match revs on downshifts and I am more focused about what my throttle foot is doing-
Funny thing is that one critisism of the NSX was it was to "ordinary" in its driving manor- very Honda like
Now my car feels more exotic- not a car that your grandmother could or would care to drive- but a car that has a race car potential ready to be released on command
That said, my NSX idles and starts like stock the sound level is very comparable to stock until around 6000 rpm at full throtle then the pitch of the exhaust sounds more like a F1 car would at distance- but without the volume
My clutch is a little grabby in first or reverse but I knew what I was getting- there are ways to avoid this and still have the clamping force necessary for a 450 + hp motor but I was not looking to maintain my Honda Civic ride.
Bottom line is modifying your motor (FI or otherwise) will more than likely place added stress on the components but how you drive it is the biggest variable of all.
Think out your modifications and do them correctly (ie do not cut corners) learn to drive well and respect your car and I do not think you will have problems.
I would be more concerned about ignoring the timing belt!
Rich