Last weekend I was fortunate enough to test drive a 1995 355. I'd like to share my driving impressions. Based on the driving experience, the 355 is similar to the NSX in its power delivery. Both cars have a low end torque deficiency, and the motor's sweet spot starts at around 4000-4500 rpm and continues to pull til redline. Test driving the 355, I wasn't really able to go crazy around the turns to test handling, but the 355 is very agile and tossable- steering was very tight ,responsive, straight to the point, and go kart like just like the nsx. The 355 is little more difficult to drive compared to the NSX. The 355 clutch and gas pedal is much heavier, and the gated shifter can really be a PITA, but i'm sure it just takes some time getting used to. Shifting from first to second is clunky..but so is the NSX. The interior is roomy and open, and lacks the jet cockpit atmosphere of the NSX. The 355 also sits a little higher , so you don't have to avoid the driveways and speedbumps so much like you do in the NSX. Call me crazy, but comparing both cars' performance, the NSX feels faster and more powerful. I was able to unwind the 355 to its 8500 redline in 1st through 4th gear, and based on the experience, the NSX pulled much harder, with more response, especially in the lower RPM's. I was expecting so much more from the 355, and in the end, I was sort of the disappointed by the 355's lack of power. Despite the lack of power, the 355 was still a blast to drive, and I'd love to drive one again. The interior of the 355 is what really caught my attention.. and i can't seem to get it off my mind:biggrin: Sitting in the 355, there is no questioning its exoticness. The softest italian leather surrounds you, and delicious smell of the leather is intoxicating. You can tell that so much passion and craftsmanship went into designing everything from the seats, steering wheel, door panels and dash board. The interior of the tan interior 355, makes the NSX's interior look mediocre. There is no question that the 355 is one of the best sounding cars ever made.....only with an aftermarket exhaust. While many will argue that the 355 has one of the best sounding OEM exhaust, I found that it was too tame and too quiet. I felt that my NSX with its customized exhaust out shined the 355's exhaust note. You definitely need a capristo, tubi, kriessieg, or MS racing exhaust on the 355 to bring the best out of it. In summary, the 355 and NSX have their pro's and cons, but without a doubt, both cars provide a driving experience that will leave you satisfied and begging for more.
