Honda NSX (1990 - 2005)

Last updated 24 February 2021

Buying Guide

Good

• Surprisingly civilised supercar.
• 14' 7" long by 6' wide and weighing 1,410kg.
• As easy to drive as a Honda Civic, but originally had storming VTEC V6 with 271 bhp that sounds wonderful.
• Early 5-speed models did not have standard PAS and were better for it (optional PAS was electric). Aircon standard, naturally. Auto optional.
• Targa came along in July '95 with standard PAS and optional F-Matic auto or six-speed manual.
• Engine grew to 3,179cc in Feb 1998 giving 276hp and more torque. Far more reliable and easy to live with on a day-to-day basis than a Ferrari. Revamped again for 2002: 276b, 220lb ft torque; top speed 168mph; 0-60 in 5.5 seconds; combined economy 22.8mpg.
• In June 2001 Honda was rated by Motor Warranty Direct as Britain's 4th most claim-free used marque. Hondas generally 8th lowest average warranty repair costs in 2003 Warranty Direct Reliability index (index 67.27 v/s lowest 31.93) www.reliabilityindex.co.uk/default.html?apc=311

Bad

• Tends to understeer quite a lot rather than catch you out with snap-oversteer.
• Power-steered cars lack steering feel.
• Eats rear tyres (6,000-8,000 miles), which were originally very expensive, but price of these has now come down.

Watch

• Must have full dealer service history with super-clean fully synthetic oil, frequent ATF, brake fluid, coolant, aircon refrigerant changes.
• Check carefully for any signs of uneven tyre wear.
• Alloy suspension is vulnerable to off road (or off track) excursions and speed hump and pot hole damage.

Recalls

• All official Honda recalls: www.honda.co.uk/cars/owners/youandyourcar/recallsandupdates