Why spend that much for your NSX?

[spjvang]

Hi NSXprime,

It's crazy to think that I've been lurking this forum since high school, approx. 10yrs ago! To preface my question, I just want to say that this thread is NOT intended to degrade the NSX or its owners/club. I am simply looking for the opinion or thought-process of those who have "been there, and done that".

Ten years ago, the NSX became one of my dreams cars, one of many factors that motivated me to work hard in life to "make it". Fast-forward 10yrs --> my wife has a solid career, I'm getting through med school, and I'm thinking of the horizons. I'm at the point where obtaining an NSX is no longer just a dream, but can become reality. However, in today's high-end sport car market, I find it extremely hard to justify buying my dream NSX (2002+ or Zanardi ed.). For $50-70k, my head says a used GTR, 911, Cayman, Evora, etc. are a much better bargain. They are newer, faster, just as exotic, almost better in everyway.....for what the NSX has to offer, I can only convince myself to spend $35-40k on one. However, it won't be THE NSX that I want.

I know many of you must have gone through this so I just want some honest replies explaining how you reasoned through this dilemma.

 

[s2kNSX]

From someone who has an NSX and who has gone through medical school and residency I can Sincerely tell you that if 10 years of lurking on prime hasn't answered your question than nothing will. However, let me explain to you why I bought mine...I bought it to fulfill a dream !!!
Zaid

 

[spjvang]

From someone who has an NSX and who has gone through medical school and residency I can Sincerely tell you that if 10 years of lurking on prime hasn't answered your question than nothing will. However, let me explain to you why I bought mine...I bought it to fulfill a dream !!!
Zaid

Nice to see a physician on the forum.

Thanks for your reply. I still love the NSX, but people can change in 10 yrs. I use to only like Jap cars due to better reliability, but considering ownership and maintenance of an unreliable (i.e. German) car shouldn't be a problem with a physician's salary, it's opened up doors to many other options. As much as I'd like to fulfill my NSX dream, it's depressing to think that at the same price, a Cayman S/R can smash the NSX and look good doing it!

Doc, do you mean to tell me that you never considered owning a P-car?

 

[TURBO2GO]

It's not the most performance anymore obviously in the 70k range so if that's what you are after forget the NSX and get something else.

You get an 02+ because of rarity, exclusivity, styling, ultimate reliability, and last, performance. Because I like those other things, especially it's rarity and style, and wanted the performance too, I dropped another 55k on top of 75k to create the car I am really happy with. Is that wise? I am not sure. But it's exactly how I want it. And I love the car. It costs me so little in maintenance, repair costs, taxes and insurance compared to a Ferrari or Lamborghini, that I don't mind spending extra on mods. Everytime I see a maintenence or repair bill on an Italian exotic I realize how many mods that pays for on an NSX.

I dont care for the looks of a GTR nor do I care for its driving position, and other than the GTR your choice is an Italian with more costs. A 911 or a cayman are not even comparable to me in terms of looks and certainly not as far as exclusivity, I'd be soooooo disappointed if I lost my NSX for one of those.

If you don't care about any of that, then get something else. An NSX is definitely not for everyone. But I love having this super exclusive and super rare car that gets compliments from everyone that sees it that also terrorizes ferraris and GTRs on the track. It's just fun to own and drive. A thrill. No depreciation either. That's why I own mine.

 

[SuperSonic]

I'm the same as turbo. I bought the 02 up for the rarity and value. I mean I have 48k miles on it and in all honesty with 75k still get low 50000 for it just based on the numbers: 1/3 blue tan that year, only 1/27 I think in the US, of which a few have been totaled. Then to top that all off I put a turbo on it to get even further with performance and getting what most don't have. That's what it was for me. Plus the reliability is a no brainier. A 91 has gone 400k plus miles at 21 years old, my 04 will run strong till 2025 at that rate, a rate where majority of P cars will have died long before that. In my opinion and some disagree, the 02 is the modern style ing that keeps the car in line with any newer Ferrari or Lamborghini. So, newer parts, rarer car, newer year, are all reasons people go for 02 plus. If you read enough here, it's not the price I want to sell it for, it's the price some one will pay. Good example the 02 white that was just bought in pretty sure sold a few years ago for 45k, which just recently sold for 60 or so. Why would someone buy it for much more money with more miles assuming that was the case...... Because a 02 white is the rarest of the rare. There are only like 11 in the US or some ridiculous number. Virtually no P car will be like that.

 

[bumbobee]

Well said!!!!! God couldn't explain better. You will not understand us(NSX owners) until you own one, simple as that.

From someone who has an NSX and who has gone through medical school and residency I can Sincerely tell you that if 10 years of lurking on prime hasn't answered your question than nothing will. However, let me explain to you why I bought mine...I bought it to fulfill a dream !!!
Zaid

 

[hlakhani]

i think if you can convince yourself that other cars in a similar price range are better in every way, you should buy one of the other cars. But do yourself a favor and try to drive each of the cars you're considering. The NSX is more than the sum of its parts (and specs), but the package it offers is not for everyone -- and that's quite okay

The big question you have to ask yourself is: How much do you really like the NSX, and is it really a dream car?

There will always be newer, shinier, faster, distractions that might keep you from purchasing the car. For me, the E36 M3 is a car i've considered purchasing at least 5 times, and every time I convince myself it's time to get a car, I make excuses for why that car should be in the mix. Ultimately, I've passed on it multiple times despite the special place it holds in my heart, but have no regrets. I have ended up with cars that were better (for me) in each case.

When I was last at a point where I had the means and desire to make a big car purchase, I considered the NSX along with other personal favorites, including a C6 z06, a Lotus Elise, a Cayman, a yet-to-be-released BMW 1M, and the GTR. My decision to go with the NSX over these came partly because the number of NSXs that would meet my criteria were slowly dwindling away, but I'd always have time to purchase and experience some of those other favorites in the future.

Unlike the E36 M3, the NSX was truly a dream car (for over 15 years PRIOR to my purchase in 2010), and I decided to get exactly what I wanted: a mint, black/black 02 with only 12k miles on it, and a documented history. I paid a pretty penny for it, but have no regrets. I've since driven and passed on the Elise, and eventually picked up another car off the list too (cayman s). I've had a chance to spend some extended time with other newer, shinier cars and while I've been impressed with many of them, they all provide different, unique experiences that can't be compared on paper.

To summarize, go drive some cars and buy what makes you happiest. And appreciate that with that purchase, you're paying for the overall experience rather than the spec-sheet.

At the end of the day, 50k spent is 50k spent... that can be on a late model 997, AMG car, GTR, or a 10 year old NSX. Each of those would be different "value" propositions based on blue book, among other things. Based on the attributes you want, you'll have to figure out the best way to spend your ~50k.

 

[Ric]

If you have been lurking here for 10 years and still ask why you should buy the nsx, then please do yourself a favor and buy something else so you won't regret buying a relatively slow nsx. Like Zaid said, it's to fulfill a dream.

 

[Dynamic-uzed-auto]

Nice to see a physician on the forum.

We have plenty on this forum

 

[SUNEDAZ]

^+1 with plenty of experience driving their NSX's

 

[HIJACKER]

Hi NSXprime,

It's crazy to think that I've been lurking this forum since high school, approx. 10yrs ago! To preface my question, I just want to say that this thread is NOT intended to degrade the NSX or its owners/club. I am simply looking for the opinion or thought-process of those who have "been there, and done that".

Ten years ago, the NSX became one of my dreams cars, one of many factors that motivated me to work hard in life to "make it". Fast-forward 10yrs --> my wife has a solid career, I'm getting through med school, and I'm thinking of the horizons. I'm at the point where obtaining an NSX is no longer just a dream, but can become reality. However, in today's high-end sport car market, I find it extremely hard to justify buying my dream NSX (2002+ or Zanardi ed.). For $50-70k, my head says a used GTR, 911, Cayman, Evora, etc. are a much better bargain. They are newer, faster, just as exotic, almost better in everyway.....for what the NSX has to offer, I can only convince myself to spend $35-40k on one. However, it won't be THE NSX that I want.

I know many of you must have gone through this so I just want some honest replies explaining how you reasoned through this dilemma.

GTR = Is way to big for my taste
911 = Not rare, SO MANY Porsche's on the road, I would compare it to being as rare as a Corvette.
Evora = Interesting car, the only one I would consider in the same rarity category.

 

[itrsteve]

I took into account a few other factors.

1.) Cost of ownership
2.) Depreciation (if I had to get rid of it)

Not saying maintenance is cheap, but when comparing with other cars in that price range it is almost a no-brainer.

I was also seeing how little depreciation there was on any of these, especially in regards to miles. It seemed like a car that I could really actually use and enjoy. People have a much easier time picking up a NSX with 100k than a 911, etc. Due to a low supply, sales were generally pretty quick. I hope never to sell, but it helps with the peace of mind of ownership. (I have a house that I couldn't sell if I wanted to for a couple years due to the downturn in 2008 and I wanted a car that had the most minimal possibility of "losing my a** on")

This is just the logic I ran through in my brain to justify it.

 

[LoveNSXs]

It's all about your priorities, as many have pointed out. If spec sheets, times, and all that noise are so important, the NSX is not a good choice. If you want decent specs (relatively speaking), a rare, exclusive exotic vehicle with fantastic driver feel and experience, then what are you waiting for?

You're a test drive away from owning one.

 

[Thunder]

Just do a search and see topics regret owners who sold their NSX in general, he returned to the NSX:smile:

 

[blue_myriddn]

You're a test drive away from owning one.

+1
Let your butt do some of the decision making, get out there and drive some of these cars. You are correct, there are a TON of great cars on the market in the $50-70k range and rare 2002+ NSX is only one of them so take your time and have a good look around. Buying an NSX because it is a "dream" car is only a starting point the decision process not an end point. I grew up with lust filled eyes at Magnum PI's Ferrari 308 and while I *could* afford one now, after learning a bit about the car it just doesn't fit my lifestyle at the moment.

Regarding the Evora - was out on a drive with one this past weekend and it is a very lovely vehicle and the owners were very satisfied. It has a Toyota engine like the Exige, so it should be a pretty solid running vehicle.

 

[spjvang]

If you have been lurking here for 10 years and still ask why you should buy the nsx, then please do yourself a favor and buy something else so you won't regret buying a relatively slow nsx.

Well, it's not THAT simple. Perhaps I'm not bleeding cash so I cannot just splurge without much thought. Yes, the NSX is one of my dream cars, however, I'm trying to justify spending $50k+. Maybe I MIGHT be satisfied with an NA1, it's almost the same car at half the price. At least we're not talking MR2 vs NSX, right?

I took into account a few other factors.

1.) Cost of ownership
2.) Depreciation (if I had to get rid of it)

I hope never to sell, but it helps with the peace of mind of ownership. (I have a house that I couldn't sell if I wanted to for a couple years due to the downturn in 2008 and I wanted a car that had the most minimal possibility of "losing my a** on")

This is just the logic I ran through in my brain to justify it.

Thanks for the encouraging reply. I suppose depreciation is one area where the NSX is far superior to its competitors. Of course, this could all change once the next-gen NSX arrives. I'd hate to buy at the wrong time.

I dropped another 55k on top of 75k to create the car I am really happy with. Is that wise? I am not sure. But it's exactly how I want it. And I love the car.

But I love having this super exclusive and super rare car that gets compliments from everyone that sees it that also terrorizes ferraris and GTRs on the track. It's just fun to own and drive. A thrill. No depreciation either. That's why I own mine.

I'm really glad that you know what you want and have the courage to just do it regardless if it's a wise decision or not. Maybe growing up in poverty made me too frugal, always conscious of making sure every penny has its return. Just the thought of dropping another $55k on top of a $75k car sounds crazy to me! At least my wife is pushing me to forget the price and just buy what I like.

 

[myw]

very very well said.

You are correct, there are a TON of great cars on the market in the $50-70k range and rare 2002+ NSX is only one of them so take your time and have a good look around. Buying an NSX because it is a "dream" car is only a starting point the decision process not an end point.

to the OP i am in the same position (and mentality as you cost/value wise re nsx ownership); and from my discussions with others in a same position as myself; i am sure we are not alone either.

like blue_myrriddn said take your time and test drive them all.

at recent times i've wonder if its just a silly washed out dream but in the end i am still on the hunt. i've also taken a hard look at the other cars you've mentioned; especially the 996/997s.

here are some of my personal findings during my search that may/may not help you. some of the points are from discussions from various members on prime who i've befriended.

- while i think 70k is a tad on the high side i do feel that 50 grand good condition 2002+ nsxs with reasonable milage is fair and possible.

- 35k will get you into much older nsx and depending on your needs; may have alot more milage then you are looking for. parts replacements may be a serious reality to refurbish the car into minty/new condition. ive read MANY TIMES from prime members that they should have just ponied up the extra cash and bought a newer car from the beginning after factoring in costs for maintenance; fixing the car up.

- from my search the high milage nsx have vastly higher milage since after a certain milage point; depreciation isnt a huge issue for the owners anymore; so the car gets driven quite a bit more then a lower milage nsx where depreciation can be a major concern for the owner.

- for those who are in a position to start a family soon or already have a young family; the back seat of the 911's would definately come in handy for babies/young kids (heard this from several primers who went the 911 route). im only bringing this up since you sound like someone who may be in this position (as am i)

- an nsx should be harder to finance then the newer cars you mentioned due to the age of the vehicle. i've seen enough posts on this forum and know first hand stories from sellers who think the car is sold to a new buyer, and then the potential buy backs out since he simply cant get financing for the older vehicle. for those in a cash position where financing isnt needed then this isnt a problem but for someone finishing med school i figure this potentially may be a concern. recently however ive read a few posts on PENFED which may alleviate any financing issues but more research would be needed.

hope this somewhat helps. drive them all; figure out which car you feel fits best for your needs/budgets/wants and take the plunge without looking back.

 

[kookoo4nsx]

I own a red '93. Last week I picked up my 2nd grade son at his school. On the way there, I got a enthustiac thumbs up at a stoplight, a gawking group of schoolchildren that probably had no idea what they were looking at yet couldn't take their eyes off of the car and a happy son that screamed "AWWWWWWWWWWWW YEAHHHHHHHHHHH"
when I let the turbo scream. (up to legal speeds of course)

On paper, the NSX SHOULD be much slower and boring but , IT's NOT. My advice, get behind the wheel of one. At that point, you will know.

 

[spjvang]

myw - Happy to hear that I'm not alone. I was starting to feel that everyone on Prime is either (1) too rich or (2) hardcore NSX fans. If you don't mind me asking, why are you looking specifically for an NA1? Regardless, best of luck on your search.

kookoo4nsx, you're right. On paper, it shouldn't be THAT much better than my current whip, an S2K. I definitely have to test drive one of these cars to see what the ruckus is about.

 

[NSX-Barque]

I think you have to decide whether you are buying with your head or your heart!
There is a plethora of fine advice preceeding this post, all quite logical.
Your delima is logic or passion.....for me it was passion and was lucky enough to have bought a well built and reliable car as a bonus......

 

[DocL]

My suggestion is for you to wait until you finish med school and find a job before you make a purchase. Do you know what you monthly student loan payments are going to be? I'm sure it's more than what many people pay for a mortgage.

 

[myw]

myw - Happy to hear that I'm not alone. I was starting to feel that everyone on Prime is either (1) too rich or (2) hardcore NSX fans. If you don't mind me asking, why are you looking specifically for an NA1? Regardless, best of luck on your search.

having just gotten married, purchased a brand new home, started a huge (well at least for me) reno project, starting a business (startup costs); and swapped out 2 cars all in a relatively short period of time i didnt want to freak out my wife (or myelf) anymore re more spending; hence i just wanted to be a cheapa$$ with the nsx.

but at first i was looking at the 02+ nsx's but after surfing prime; i figured i would be one of those owners that would be driving the car at most 10000 km a year (6000 miles) annually; since i am barely in the country due to my business; so it didnt make sense to me to dump 50+ grand into a flashy dream car. so i started to look for an older nsx hopefully in the 30-35k range with reasonable milage and an 02+ conversion.

but in the end deep down; i know that even with a 30k nsx it would take at least 10-15 grand worth of parts + labour + maintence to make it into a dream nsx (for me); which would take me to at least 40-45 for the 'dream nsx'. i keep on using the term dream nsx since the nsx has been my fav car as a teen and of course i could never just leave it stock, some of the incredible builds on prime make it impossible to just leave the car stock.

after really thinking about it; i am now finally swaying back towards the 02+ route depending upon what comes up for sale ; go with some mild mods (all easily reversible to account for depreciation/resale) and be happy just driving it every so often.

one final point, i dunno how your wife feels about the nsx but as a fact my wife would feel much more secure driving a lower milage newer car; and really REALLY is uncomfortable re me purchasing an older nsx. lol she always states 'its my decision' but every time i move funds around and am about to seal the deal on an older nsx purchase, she immediately suggests taking me to test drive caymans+911s since a handful of our close friends and neighbors have those. when i really put it in perspective i want her to be happy driving it and i value her opinion as well so i rethink it over.

in the end i dont think you will lose any money just taking your time thinking it through; weighing your options and doing research. having money in your pocket; and/or increasing your cash position re your inevitable dream car purchase can't hinder you.

some on prime may argue saying that nsx prices are going up; but i've seen enough recent nsx cases to support as well as deter that argument.

hope some of this blabbing insight helps.

 

[myw]

this is one of the reasons why i love prime; alot of respectful, successful smart people having traveled a similar path; giving you sound advice from all directions.

My suggestion is for you to wait until you finish med school and find a job before you make a purchase. Do you know what you monthly student loan payments are going to be? I'm sure it's more than what many people pay for a mortgage.

 

[TURBO2GO]

Why don't you forget the 02+ and get yourself a clean NA1 for 30-35K for a few years?

Hear me out here:

You aren't buying anything. You are "renting" an NSX. For how much? For free. Why? Because in 3-4 years you'll sell it for the same amount. Pay for gas and insurance. What other car can you do that with? Even a Camry can't do that. The fact that you get a supercar for free.... It's ridiculous.

When you finish medical school and are making money get yourself an NSX 2.0.

 

[neonshaun]

for what the NSX has to offer, I can only convince myself to spend $35-40k on one. However, it won't be THE NSX that I want.

In that case, have you considered picking up an earlier NSX, then bumping up to a 2002/zanardi if you feel the need? The earlier NSX's will hold their value, so it would be easier to buy one and go from there...

edit: ah... turbo2go beat me to it. dang work.