Spyders, the NSX, and Mr. Z!

[Kidztchr7]

Please don't berate me for asking, but only now have I come to the point where I can purchase my first low-mileage NSX. I have owned a 2000 MR2 Spyder and a 2003 350Z. I love the quick, agile, razor steering aspects of the Spyder, not to mention its great reliability. I can always count on it. I love the growling power, thrust, and comfort of the Z.

I have only driven one NSX, a 1991 with 80K miles and in average condition. To be honest, I wasn't impressed. The clutch felt mushy, the shifter a bit 'loose', the acceleration felt comparatively 'heavy'. There just didn't seem to be a beast in its heart to match its beauty.

Was this typical of a well-maintained NSX? What will I find (and not find) in the NSX that I have come to love in my other two cars? I'm wondering if I'm really cut out to own the car I've always lusted for, or just drove an atypical one.

Thanks to those of you who know how the NSX drives for any insight you can offer.

 

[Motegi]

There is no way to tell after having driven just one. Especially one that might not have been in the best mechanical condition. Drive as many as you can. Even if a newer one pops up in your area outside of your budget take if for a test drive and see how it feels.

The more cars you are able to test the better you ability to judge what is "normal" for an NSX.

Good luck.

 

[DrVolkl]

My 2003 350Z was putting 260hp to the wheels NA when I sold it. I haven't missed it one day since I got my NSX.

 

[Joshs]

Please don't berate me for asking, but only now have I come to the point where I can purchase my first low-mileage NSX. I have owned a 2000 MR2 Spyder and a 2003 350Z. I love the quick, agile, razor steering aspects of the Spyder, not to mention its great reliability. I can always count on it. I love the growling power, thrust, and comfort of the Z.

I have only driven one NSX, a 1991 with 80K miles and in average condition. To be honest, I wasn't impressed. The clutch felt mushy, the shifter a bit 'loose', the acceleration felt comparatively 'heavy'. There just didn't seem to be a beast in its heart to match its beauty.

Was this typical of a well-maintained NSX? What will I find (and not find) in the NSX that I have come to love in my other two cars? I'm wondering if I'm really cut out to own the car I've always lusted for, or just drove an atypical one.

Thanks to those of you who know how the NSX drives for any insight you can offer.

I bought the first NSX I drove (potentially a really bad thing), and I thought the clutch felt 'weird', but like you, had no frame of reference. I had done extensive research about the car, but had no first-hand experience (nor knew anyone personally who did).

Fortunately, I took it to Autowave for a PPI, Mike drove it around, and amoung other minor issues, I learned that the clutch was shot. I used that fact to negotiate a lower purchase price for the car, since it was advertised as 'clutch is fine'. I also discussed the NSX market with Autowave and got their expert opinions about this particluar vehicle, as well as what they thought it was worth.

So I realize I risked a lot on Autowave, but based on the reputation they have on Prime, I was willing to go for it.

It would have been safer to take the time to test drive several cars before jumping in, but that's not the only way to go.. And I still feel like I got a good deal, and am _very_ happy with my car.

I've never driven with an NSX that had a properly functioning OEM clutch, but the comptech stage 2 I had installed sure doesn't feel mushy! My car had 130k at the time of purchase, and I think even 80k is more than enough for for a clutch to be destroyed.

-Josh