The Honda NSX dates back to a time when mobile phones were the size of cornflake packets and the Spice Girls didn’t exist. Yet nearly 13 years after its launch the NSX is enjoying something of a renaissance with Honda expecting to sell twice as many NSX’s in the UK this year, as they did last.

 

Developed with the help of the late Formula one world champion, Ayrton Senna, at its heart beats a mid mounted naturally aspirated V6 24 valve VTEC engine which will take the car to a top speed of nearly 170mph yet still return over 20mpg in normal use.

 

Unlike many high performance cars the NSX has a flexible, unfussy character, happy to stand in line with commuter traffic on a daily basis. Only when you find a clear road and let the revs build to 6000rpm does the cars super car character reveal itself.

As the revs climb the engine note changes to a frantic wail only drawing breath when it hits the artificially limited 8,500rpm red line.  

 

Until Feb 1998 all cars were fitted with the 2,977cc unit producing in the region of 265bhp, and then Honda introduced a new 3,179cc engine with 276bhp which they mated to a wonderfully slick 6 speed manual gearbox. However, drivers wanting the optional 4 speed F-Matic version have to satisfy themselves with the older smaller power plant.

 

Inside, the cabin may not have the ambience of a Ferrari or an Aston, but it does have generous space with ample leg and shoulder room. The seats provide good lateral support and the steering column adjusts for height and reach. Pedals are set directly ahead and the roomy foot well even has space for a foot rest.

Interior stowage space is more limited, the book pack fills the glove box and the centre consol just about manages your phone and sun glasses. At the front end the nose houses the space saver spare wheel and tyre but the cars long rump houses a good size boot that's big enough to take four medium sized suitcases.

Driving an NSX for the first time will come as a pleasant surprise to anyone anticipating the compromises usually associated with high performance sports cars. The clutch is light, the gear change smooth even the visibility is good, both front wings are visible and the wraparound rear window makes reversing relatively easy. In the land of super cars the NSX is surely the easiest one to drive. 

On the road the speed sensitive electric assistance gives good feel but with 3.2 turns lock to lock it’s a little slow, but spirited drivers will appreciate that the traction control system can be turned off and the cars normally neutral handling attitude can be provoked towards over steer.

The recent 2002 facelift saw a change from the original pop-up lights to faired units, this and modifications to the front spoiler and rear diffuser reduced the drag coefficient from 0.32 to 0.30. At the same time Honda up rated the front springs, beefed up the anti roll bar and fitted 17 inch wheels all round, the fronts previously being 16 inch.

The NSX does show its age in terms of equipment with no option of satellite navigation or computer controlled suspension. Today you get what you got in 1991; ABS and traction control to keep you on the road, air conditioning to keep you cool and a tape deck to keep you entertained!

Despite its docile nature it’s important to remember that the NSX is a true super car so all the rules of purchase should apply. Check service history carefully, and if buying privately have the car looked over by a specialist.

 

    

 

Check the following

 

• Brakes - Vented discs all round and ABS

• Headlamps – Pop up head lamps ceased after Feb 2002

• Gear box – 6 speed manual replaces 5 speed after Feb 1998

• Wheels – 17 inch alloys all round since Feb 2002

• Servicing – Pre 98 cars are every 6,000 miles. Later cars extend to 9,000 miles

• Tyres – Check speed rating, factory fit were Bridgestone or Yokohama

• Boot – large boot will take several suitcases and optional 10 disc cd-stacker

• Rear suspension – low and easily knocked making it prone to damage

• Roof – Prior to Feb 2002 Coupe versions have black roof

• Tyre wear – if heavy then probably due to in correct wheel alignment

• Major service – 60,000 mile service replaces timing chain and cam belt, and costs £1,100

 

The one to buy 

 

• Honda NSX 3.2 coupe

• 6 speed manual gearbox and full Honda service history

• 2000 ‘W’ with 30,000 miles

• Pay £38,150 at dealer   £36,000 privately

 

 

 

 

 

 

© Jason Dawe Productions Limited December 2003