Hey guys,
I need your help.
I am on the waiting list for the E60 M5 with the V10 and just put a deposit on a 06’ ZO6. Both cars will probably be here by next Christmas. However, to keep my spouse happy (buying and selling 4 sports cars over the past 18 months did not help), I can only have one. Whichever one I choose, I need to keep it for quite a few years (bosses order).
I recently purchased my 04’ NSX (I always wanted one since 1990) hoping its semi-exotic looks; technical excellence, handling dynamics and overall quality would overshadow its modest power. To further improve handling, I am adding wider wheels, aftermarket suspension and etc.
However, I am going through serious horsepower withdrawals. Keep in mind that my two cars prior to the NSX were a 570 rwhp ZO6 and a slightly modified 996 turbo. I regret selling my 996 turbo; it was the most enjoyable car I have ever owned. My supercharged ZO6 had insane acceleration, but I hated the cheap interior and poor workmanship. I have looked into forced induction, but was disappointed after driving a Comptech supercharged NSX.
In an attempt to fix my power addiction, I ordered a new C6 ZO6. With 500 hp and a top speed of almost 200 mph for approximately $70,000, it is a performance bargain. Also, the thought of bolting on a twin turbo or supercharger kit to the new ZO6 sounds absolutely fun. I just hope the redesign of the C6’s interior is substantial enough to keep my interest. I would like to have both the NSX and ZO6, but I just don’t think my wife will allow it, but you never know. I better start being nice.
My other dilemma is the need for a high power sport sedan for transporting the family. I have thoroughly enjoyed my 2000 M5 for 4 ½ years, which is the longest I have kept a car, since my first. However, I really want more power, to the point of almost replacing it with a supercharged E55 in the past. However, the thought of the Benz’s inferior handling and braking brings me back to my senses. I want an attractive sedan with sports car like handling and performance. The E60 M5 appears to offer all the performance attributes I am looking for, but I am not too sure of its appearance.
What do you guys think?
· Does the new C6 ZO6’s near super car performance make it a better overall choice than my NSX?
· Should I try to substantially modify (forced induction, BBK and etc)my NSX or is it a waste of time trying to achieve performance on par with the new ZO6?
· Should I get another 996 turbo versus the new C6 ZO6 even though the ZO6 will probably outperform the 996 in all performance aspects?
· Is the new V10 M5’s increased performance and improvements worth an extra $50,000 over my existing M5? (as a reference, my M5 has various Dinan engine mods, full suspension, wheel and big brake upgrades)
· Or should I just keep my M5 and NSX and get a project/track car such as a Mitsubishi Evo 8 and modify the heck out of it?
By the way, I have found the members on NSXPrime absolutely first class. I think part of automotive ownership is the camaraderie with fellow members. I had a great time at the JGTC and meeting the fellow members on this board. NSXPrime has made ownership of my NSX very enjoyable. Kudos to everyone here!
On the other hand, when I had my ZO6s, I attended the local club meetings and absolutely felt out of place. They were a completely different breed of enthusiasts.
Thanks in advance for your help.
Sandy
Now that car would get me over my horsepower withdrawals. Thanks again Mike.
There must be some big time issues in your past to have to make everything stronger, faster and have more horsepower than you can ever really use. (Although the Prius/GT2 is intriguing). Realize this is coming from somebody who bought a second NSX to make a track car instead of getting a Miata like a "smart" guy would. BTW, I voted for option #4.
