| Author | Message | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
|
Yeah the cheapest of those sport bikes, 600cc Kawasakis, Hondas, etc will kick the •••• out of a Ferrari or McLaren F1. For like $8G you get a bike that'll go 0-60 in low 3s, it's nuts. Although I guess you wont break any land speed records if you die...bikes are dangerous, I can't remember who it was, but one year they were doing an interview with the superbike world champion, who said that never in his life has he or would he ever ride a bike on a street because there are so many bad drivers out there. Alright I'm rambling on here, Tim that was very well said. | ||
| Tim N (Timn88)
|
First off, everyone knows how much i love ferraris here, but i doubt any ferrari (even an F50) is as fast as a hayubusa sport bike. I;ve read magazines that test them saying they run 2.? sconds 0-60, ive also personally seen them run 9 second 1/4th mile times at englishtown. Now with that said- yeah, hondas are good cars, i drive one every day, they are reliable, and a wise economic choice. I would still rather have a ferrari, i dont care if it breaks down, i will walk anywere i have to go. Its just one of those things you have to live with. Also, i would much rather "waste" a •••• load of money on a ferrari then buy an nsx that preforms better. Why you might ask? Because of SOUL. I forgot who said it, but ferraris have soul. They also have auch a unique look. They dont need spoilers and a whole bunch of vents and air intakes to look good. If people here would rather have ferraris, thats their choice and if you would rather have an nsx or a supra, thats your choice too (and more ferraris left on the market, meaning lower prices for us). Also, reliability isnt an issue, if you can afford a ferrari, you can afford a dialy driver, also, you buy a ferrari with your heart, not your head. | ||
| Kenny Herman (Kennyh)
|
Well its good to see that I sparked some controversy  . I hope I did not divide the board though- so, you guys did answer my question, the NSX is a daily driver. Thanks. | ||
| Mark (Study)
|
Fred that's cool. Glad to hear your enjoying the 308. I use to live in Bloomington, Indiana. Played a lot of golf at the Point Country Club on Lake Monroe. | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
|
Mark, I have had my 308 for a little over a year. I have put around 4500 miles on it. I live in Indiana so of course it gets parked from around Nov-Mar. During the winter if it is a nice sunny day I will take it out for a good drive just to get all the fluids warmed up. I usually drive it even on these winter drives with the top out. When I first got it I had a few minor problems. (spark plug wires,thermostat,)but it has been very reliable. My MR2 was a 91 turbo. It had a nice set of HRE wheels that were an exact knock off of the 288 wheels. It was a really fun car and I never had any problems with it. | ||
| Mark (Study)
|
Fred, How long have you had the 308 and how much do you get to use it? No real problems, I assume. Is it your daily driver? I also had a MR2 91 before I bought the NSX. | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
|
Nick- I am still anxiously waiting for your input on this subject. | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
|
I test drove an Nsx while I was in the market for my 308. I was worried about reliablity of the 308. The inside of the Nsx was too similar to my MR2. The car just felt like a suped up MR2 to me. Not that that is bad. I loved the MR2, but to me the Ferrari seemed all business inside. The instrument cluster it fantastic and I LOVE the gated shifter. That satisfying click as you snap it into 3rd is so choice. Even taking into account the better performance and reliablity of the Nsx I still went with the 308 and would again in a minit. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
|
Allyn, I'd bet your wife thinks Ferraris r for picking up chicks & thus a threat to her. Thats probably why chicks make guys sell their sports cars when they get married. I'd get rid of wifey long before I let my 512TR go | ||
| david charles (Supraboytt)
|
Mark- I can see where your coming from-great response by the way.Isuppose if some one asked why I loved cars so much - I'm sure I could toss a few reasons at them but I could never fully explain why at 24 my room looks like a 15 yrs olds with all the car •••• on the walls- I have been moving more upmarket now that I making some money- just bought a print by Benoit Deliege-great artist in MHO -but not very well know- do a search on google if you want to see some prints- mostly le mans and F1 stuff Ironically after all this ranting on my part regarding what makes an F-car so special- I was just out driving - had to leave the office - long day- and during my drive I spotted a navy blue/ tan 355 spyder - possibly my favorite color- combo-and I cut a car off just so I could follow him - I suppose that wouldn't happen if it was a porsche or an NSX- so I guess I'm as guilty as you guys- anyways appreciate all the posts- DC | ||
| Allyn (Allyn)
|
Mark is correct. My '72 Lotus Europa has soul. My brother in law's NSX has soul to him but not to me. My wife's Honda Odyssey has soul to her and I like it a lot too, and she likes the Lotus but she thinks all Ferraris are pri*k cars and hates them.So you'll never define 'soul'; it's definitely up to the individual. | ||
| Mark (Study)
|
David, You real seem to want an aswer to the "soul" question. Maybe you need to look at it in a few different ways? What makes a guy a sports fan NUT!.. that is just crazy about a certain football team (even if they're not winning) That team is his life! What makes a guy fall in love with a pretty woman that is a real head-case and pain in the ass? I think it is about how objects make us feel. Men like the way they feel when they have a pretty woman or a sexy car. Some people have a lust for band-names. Having the newest Nike shoes or what ever the "in crowd" is swinging at the links. Are Pings still the rage in golf clubs? Callaway? Cobra? I can't keep up with the trends but some guys live for this. I use to like watching guys at the country club fighting over who can buy the new Ping putter limited edition. I think Ferrari Soul has nothing to do with the cars. It is the way Men behave. We like to think we are on top of the world, and Ferrari is the top of the mountian when it comes to cars. So in the auto world .. the drug of choice is Ferrari. Life is about chasing that high and then riding that high for as long as you can. (Men are funny animals.) David, you may be looking for an aswer that is more based in behavior then Hardware. | ||
| TomD (Tifosi)
|
David I think what got some of the guys upset is you asked a question about people's feeling and emotions about a car and then selectively chose answers you could easily criticize with technical facts. we accept all comers here but don't ask for opinions about the Ferrari mystice, criticize some of the answers and then say I worship Ferrari and even have a Ferrari toilet. I think a better approach would have been to tell us why you worship Ferrari, why you have a horse in your bathroom and then asked us why we do and feel similarly about a car manufacture. | ||
| Mark (Study)
|
Sorry Bret, Didn't mean to misrepresent your words. Also, on the subject of the 308... I still think it is the best looking car ever made by man. | ||
| david charles (Supraboytt)
|
I think some of you guys have misconstrued what I'm getting at here. I'm not a ferrari hater- farthest thing from it- Infact I have a giant ferrari racing flag pinned to my bedroom wall- a framed pic of a 348 also in my bedroom and a framed ferrari badge painting in my bathroom-and that one came straight from the factory gift shop in maranelloNot to mention the 10 or so ferrari models - a 50 yrs of ferrari DVD- and that big ferrari coffee table book written in 3 languages that details every model-So I come in peace. What I'm trying to get at here are 2 things- 1)having never driven a ferrari-I want to know from your firsthand experience what makes these cars so special-I know they're beautiful and they sound great when I've seen them pass me -but beyond that what makes a driving this car such a religous experience.2) why are you guys discrediting the NSX so much- especially given that most of you have never driven one. It's funny everone having owned an NSX on the forums seems to praise and defend them- but all the haters haven't done much more than analyze the company that produces them ,and their sheet metal. I didn't come on here to put down your cars- I love ferrari's and plan to own one in the next 5 or so yrs- but you guys seem more narrow minded when discussing your cars than the teenagers on the supra forums calling mustang and camaro owners faggots. lastly Bret M - your 308 may have plenty of heritage, good looks, and stardom in magnum PI-but unless you put some fairly dust engine additive in your tank during your next fill up--it won't even come close to the NSX in performance. And I wasn't comparing the NSX to a 308-the Road and Track comparison was between a 93 supra a 92 or 93 512 TR and a 93 Porsche 911 turbo-so I think the while the toyota certainly had a yr or so advantage on the 512-they were all produced in and around the same time - not decades a part. Guys I appreciate all your time and feedback- DC | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
|
Mark you raise a valid point, but my words were not to be intended towards that general context which you're taking them. I was just referring to David's post where he compares a 308 with an NSX, which makes a whole lot of sense. Why not compare a Supra with a 250 GTO, and then be all psyched up that the Supra could take it... | ||
| Mark (Study)
|
BretM "comparing a 80s Italian design to a 90s Japanese design? The Japanese had almost ten more years after my 308 to steal designs from Europe to make the NSX." No. When I bought my new NSX in 93, I compaired 90s Italian to 90s Japanese. Ferrrari 348 wasn't very impressive compaired to the test drive in the NSX where you could just feel the build quality. It wasn't even close. I went with "smile factor" and driving the NSX put a bigger smile on my face.( porbably had something to do with no repair worrys or stress) but NSX felt more responsive and gave superior feel. Honda bragged "they did with 6 cylinders what Ferrari did with 8. I just laughed about that. Salesman bullsh*t, but it was clever dig. But as I said below in this post. I am now shopping for a Ferrari because I like Ferrari (why not enjoy all exotics?) and its going to be two more years before NSX comes out with their next big redesign. If Honda finaly ups the motor to an 8 cylinder instead of the 6 We will be having a very cool discussion again in a few years. NSX does a lot with very little and stretches a dollar very effiently. Sorry, just can't stand to see a nice car misunderstood. | ||
| Mark (Study)
|
Vilamoura, Your comment about art compaired to a common object. NSX produced by hand about- 10,000 308/328 produced by hand about- 10,000 Am I wrong? I've noticed that people that don't like the NSX usualy don't understand it. | ||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
|
I recall years ago in my 1986 328GTS I got into a stoplight drag race with a kid in a Camaro. He beat me soundly. At the next light he rolled down his window and made a comment about how fast his Chevy was. I replied back that it may be but I still have a Ferrari and you have a Chevy. He looked dumbfounded and drove off. | ||
| 1989 328 GTS (Vilamoura2002)
|
NSX? There is nothing to compare with Ferrari...not even the colour :-) Do not dare to compare a loving piece of art with a common object. I am sure NSX has a place, but that place does not fit here, EVER! | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
|
David, by reading all of the responses it should occur to you that you are wasting your time in this debate. If you cannot hook up with the Ferrari Chat members who love their Ferraris and feel soul and heritage and all the other things mentioned, go elsewhere to another chat line that agrees with you. You will find it more satisfying I am sure. BRGDS. | ||
| Joseph Buffa (Buffa27)
|
Ferrari vs Honda at the top level of motor sport. When you praise Honda for all of its F1 success in the 80s and early 90s, I think what you really mean is McLanren�s success. The team that won was McLaren, an Englished based team with Honda Power. Ferrari is the only F1 team to design and build the whole car. Hats off to Toyota for doing it next year. | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
|
When I had my Mr2 I put the adjustable steering wheel at the italian angle so I could get used to it. Planning for the day when I made the jump to my 308 | ||
| Charles Gault (Knox_Charles)
|
Here is my take on this. I have owned my 328 for two months now. Is it a perfect car in all respects? No. Does it give me a thrill and get me excited about driving every time I start it up. Yes! I have driven cars that will out perform the 328 in certian aspects, but I am still happy with my choice. Why? The Ferrari does have that combination of history, mystique, performance, and beauty that equals SOUL. I feel a real connection with this car. Like several others on this Board, this has been my dream. I can well remember riding on my parents' red riding lawnmower, dreaming that someday I would own a Ferrari. Now I do! | ||
| '75 308 GT4 (Peter)
|
Poor Kenny, if any of you may scroll down the screen to see how this whole thing started... Yes Kenny, the NSX will be a good daily driver. Want soul? I get goose-bumps, my palms get sweaty and my heart-rate rises every time I start-up the car. Anything else, I just get in and turn the key... | ||
| Nick Scianna (Nick)
|
This one is going to be FUN!!I will be back to respond to this one!Nick Scianna www.nicksforzaferrari.com | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
|
Download the video on Kenny's site, it sums it up. You act like you want a true answer from us but then you get upset when we give it. This site is called FERRARIchat, what do you expect. Watch the video on Kenny's site, it sums up what a lot of us are saying. Your NSX will definitely not hand the 308qv its ass, anywhere. It'll beat it, but not by that much. But I guess comparing a 80s Italian design to a 90s Japanese design sounds fair...compare it to a car of its era. So with that rationale, let's compare the 308 to a 70s Jap car, yeah that makes a lot of sense. The Japanese had almost ten more years after my 308 to steal designs from Europe to make the NSX. This is like the tenth Jap car vs the Ferrari guys post that we have, are people still surprised that the members of FC like Ferraris? | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
|
O.k man what answer are you trying to get out of us? A few of us have taken a shot. Some better then others but it comes down to we love Ferrari's. They just do it for us. Nsx's are great, vetts are great cars, vipers, porsche, lotus etc. A Ferrari is IT on this board. If you say an Nsx has soul who are we to say it doesn't. It apparently does for you. | ||
| Greg Rodgers (Joechristmas)
|
David, I am wondering why you are on this site if you are not a fan of Ferraris? I do believe that you must own a Ferrari to get the true feeling of the word "Soul". I have a very strong passion for my Ferrari that I have never had for any other car, including other Exotics I have owned. IMHO the NSX doesn't have "Soul". I don't feel that words can describe the feelings I have toward my Ferrari. This is not for justification purposes either as you stated in a previous post. This is a FACT! Everytime I drive my Ferrari I am overcome with joy and excitement. It is a feeling that never gets tiring either. I also feel that Nick Scianna and his 308, Isabella, would hand your Ass in a second. If you are not interested in Ferraris why bother posting on this site. My Ferrari was a life long Dream for me and it is a Great Experience. | ||
| Pauli Salmu (Psalmu)
|
The soul? For me it's mostly the styling. That's why I wanted a Ferrari. Many other cars (Viper, Vette, Porsche, even Lambo, whatever) are cool, macho, outrageous etc. but nobody can make a car BEAUTIFUL quite like Pininfarina (sorry, GT4 owners). A Ferrari by Pininfarina is "Bella Macchina"; an NSX, while of course good-looking, is still only "factory styling". (I wish I wouldn't have such an eye for styling perfection: looking in the mirror would be more pleasant :-) | ||
| Ernesto Sgroi (T88power)
|
David, I've got both a 750+rwhp Supra and a 360 Modena. The Supra is much faster, sounds awesome, corners great, doesn't break, and is comfortable as hell. But, I'll still take the Ferrari any day of the week. There is a certain feeling to it that cannot be reproduced by a Toyota, Lexus, Porsche, Acura, Lotus, etc etc. I have driven all these cars and nothing comes close. Lamborghini maybe, but after the Miura they got too "flashy" and "spoilery" for me. If you can descride a soul in words, then you haven't got it right. Drive them both and you will see... Ernesto | ||
| TomD (Tifosi)
|
I think you missed the point, no one is knocking the nsx (well maybe some are) but it is one car produced for a few years. When honda has produced nsx like cars for 50-60 years each unique in its own right, cutting edge in performance ans styling then it (honda) will have soul. Complicating this will be the fact that honda is also producing the civic and accord. why do you think toyota uses the name lexus, honda - acura. Don't focus on one particular car look at the whole line over 20 or 30 years | ||
| david charles (Supraboytt)
|
According to your definition of soul- I think a ton of cars outside of the ferrari marque have soul- especially the nsx. The NSX is handbuilt, very few produced, beautiful-especially the targa models, fantastic exhaust note -so why all the lack of soul comments. And as far as the ferrari kicking everything elses ass brettM-give me a break- i know i only own a toyota but stock for stock my supra will hand you 308 its ass- and i also don't have the headaches that ferrari owners routinely deal with. Don't believe me regarding performance I'll post a road and track article - of the supra vs. the 911 tt and the ferrari 512 tr http://www.mkiv.com/main/index.html In any case while the article may prove that a much less expensive japanese(supra tt) car can be the equal in performance-it compromises on other issues- especially styling. The NSX however does not- its styling is bold and uncompromising, its engine is in the rear-its extremely fast - i've driven one -and it feels like an extension of my body-the snicker of the gear shift, the turn on a dime steering- the short front that gives you the most confidence inspiring view of the road. Basically what is everyones beef with the NSX -I just don't see where it falls short of its ferrari competitors (348, 355) other than in the styling department. The NSX is far more reliable than the 2- and its equal in terms of performance- so guys whats the deal- and no using the words heritage or soul gratzi DC | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
|
It's all those things that you speak of in the end of your post. All the work that went into your car, the hand work done, someone's life is being put into it. You have to own one to really get it, it's that simple. You can love Ferraris all your life, but until you wake up everyday with one in the garage you don't totally get it. Unfortunately most people never can have this feeling with a car. It's hard to describe, like when you have one you no longer think about it as a Ferrari, it just becomes a part of your life. From a more scientific approach which you are talking from, it has to do with how it stimulates your senses obviously. There are certain harmonics that the various engine components and exhaust emit, as well as those found in the steering that evoke a response not found in other cars. As well as the visual aspects of the car that please the eye. Ferraris are often related to women so you can see how men would inherently find them attractive as evolution has had about a million years to make us like lines like that. Then there's the obvious about the performance, which on a road track is pretty much unparalled (you have to remember that a stock, road going Ferrari will kill an NSX or Supra, it's only when you turn the boost up insane in a Supra or supercharge an NSX that they come close, do a little work to a Ferrari and it'll kill them overall). Sure there are certain things that other cars can do better, we talk about 800hp Supras, why stop there, why not just compare a 360 to an F1 car or an Indy car. Fact is there are really no better balanced cars than a Ferrari, at least "mass" produced cars that can actually be serviced and have someone to stand behind. | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
|
David, sometimes words cannot describe how a person feels. As Ferrari owners you can see by the comments on this chat line that we all speak the same Ferrari language and use the same emotional comments about our Ferraris. Everyone who has a Ferrari on this chat line knows exactly what the other guy is saying when he uses the words, soul, hertiage etc.. To understand soul with your Ferrari is to be part of it as it will become part of you. Now I know that didn't answer your question completely but first you have to be a Ferrari owner to understand. BRGDS | ||
| TomD (Tifosi)
|
soul comes from the fact that no other manufacture has produced as many visually beautiful cars that are timeless in look and performance over as many years. this fact bestows a special aura around these cars that not to many others can claim - next time I drive down the road I will ask people why they stare and point at my car (only a mondial) even though it is 15 years old, considered the ugly duckling of the Ferrari family, overpriced and always in the shop - and I will let you know what they say - they might be able to explain it better than I can | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
|
Ok, heres my defintion of Ferrari soul. I can compare it to my 68 Corvette, or Mitsu 3000GTVR4, or even my Lambo Countach. On the tack all those cars, even the Countach, although they may b fast feel like a collection of parts working together, harmoniously , most of the time, sometimes the VR4 is a bit awkward cus it understeers, the Vette could use better shifting & steering, The Countach could use better brakes & visibility. But the 512TR is like a fantastic dance partner around Watkins Glen, I work less but I go faster than any of the other cars, & the voice, WOW. This is why my 512TR is #1 in my stable. I am in love | ||
| david charles (Supraboytt)
|
you know - i've sat in a few ferraris-355,512 TR, 512 BB, 348, 328, 308-and i was necer overly impressed--never driven one- so my opinion isn't worth much- but it almost seems like ferrari owners are constantly trying to justify why they just dropped the cost equialent of their childs education on a car-and they do this by using intangibles like "soul" and "heritage". Can someone do better than the last two posters in explaining what you guys mean by "soul" - is it the engine sound? the way the gear changes are ever so satisfying? the way the paint looks when you stare at your rear fenders thru the side mirrors? work with me here guys DC | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
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You can't explain how the word soul applies to a Ferrari. You either get it or you don't. It is kind of like faith. You either have it,or you don't | ||
| Herbert Edward Gault (Irfgt)
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It is like putting up with a lot of crap from a pretty woman that you would not accept from an ugly one. | ||
| david charles (Supraboytt)
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Can one of the Ferrari owners elaborate on what consitutes soul in a car? Throughout my experience reading thru some of the Ferrarichat threads the word soul is routinely used in reference to Ferrari's. In this particular thread a few claim that the nsx lacks soul. I'm not bashing just curious- DC | ||
| Willis Huang (Willis360)
|
Ilya, I think most people in here are well aware of Honda's achievements in racing. As a Ferrari F1 fan, I am overjoyed to see the pracing horse dominating the field again after years of getting beat by Honda (races in the 80's to mid 90's were pretty depressing to watch). The knock against the NSX has to do with the fact that it's just not as exciting as a Ferrari. It doesn't have the flair, excitement, and arrogance of a Ferrari. The fantastic performance of the NSX is not disputed here. | ||
| ilya kandibur (1badnsx)
|
I want to start off by saying I greatly appreciate Ferraris and think they are one of the most beautiful and thrilling cars available. I salivate at the site of the new 360 Spyder. If I could afford a new one, I would no doubt be driving one. Most of you already know what I am about to explain, but I wanted to post it for those that may be unaware. I hope this information is useful to the discussion. Please remember that Honda has a very rich racing heritage, which many seem to forget. In fact, Honda has dominated practically every automotive sport it has participated in. Remember Ayrton Senna? Any true F1 fan does. Possibly the greatest F1 driver of all time. How about Prost? Who dominated F1 in the late 80s and early 90s? Honda would be the correct answer. Six Constructors championships in that time span. Back to Back F1 victories. In fact, the NSX was released at that time to try and capitalize on Honda's domination in F1. Ayrton Senna himself helped tune and test the car during development. A very big reason why, in 1991, the NSX was declared by almost every authority as the best handling car ever produced. To this day, 10 years later, it is still one of the best. Honda pulled out of F1 soon after, only to return very recently. Finishing in the top 5 or 6, the first year back in F1 is an accomplishment. Give them a couple more years back in. If they're not winning again, you can bet they'll be in the top three right after Schuey. I guarantee it. To think otherwise would be to ignore their track record in motorsports. CART is another example. Notice Hondas complete domination in that sport. Same with Superbike racing. In this country, many see Honda as an econobox company. This could not be farther from the truth. First and foremost, Soichiro Honda started the company out of a love and respect of racing. In Japan, unlike the US, where NSXs dominate GT racing, Honda is known as Honda Racing. People in that culture are more educated regarding the origins of the company and what they stand for. Unfortunately, Honda became popular in the US due to their econoboxes, so when people hear Honda, that is what they think. How can one spend 90K on a Honda??? As automotive enthusiasts, we are above that. We have more knowledge and know better than to have that point of view. We understand the rich, racing heritage that many of the companies have. This takes nothing away from Ferrari, who arguably has the richest racing heritage of any company. I just thought it was important to note, for those of us who may not know, that Honda is also a company with one of the richest racing traditions in automotive history. I have not seen it in this discussion, but in many others forums, where Honda is dismissed as some cheap econobox company. That is a very unevolved point of view and only shows lack of knowledge and understanding of motorsports. If interested, do some research on Honda and what they have done. Some may be very surprised at their eventual domination of almost evert sport they have competed in. I'll end this with, Schuey is awesome. He is the reason, more than anything else, that Ferrari is dominating. Put him in any one of the competitive cars, and he would have won F1 just the same. Ferrari needs to do everything they can to keep him, because he is a true talent. As long as they can hold on to him, it will be very difficult for anyone to beat Ferrari in F1. IMO, Ferraris are the best looking car made, period. I have the utmost respect for them and what they have done. I hope nobody take any offense to my post. My purpose was to educate on the rich racing hertiage Honda has as well. Also to show that the NSX was a product of that knowledge and domination in F1, tested and tuned by one of the greatest F1 drivers of all time- Ayrton Senna. It may be showing it's age 10 years later, but in 1991, it was superior in almost every way to all other sports cars. Not bad for a Honda. ;) | ||
| Joseph Buffa (Buffa27)
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If you want to see a Ferrari beat Hondas best off the line, out accelerate it, out brake it, out handle it, and lap it (more than once). Watch an F1 race. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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Loyd, I had an experience doing burnouts in the 512TR. Not like drag racing, I was running at Lime Rock track. At the top of the hill the rear end would get light & I would keep the power on & the car was doing a burnout at 60 mph or so. It was fun but I paid for that fun a week later. The transmission Main Shaft looked like a broken swizzle stick once we determined that that is what broke & left me stranded on Rt 17 on my way to Watkins Glen. Needless to say, I dont do that anymore | ||
| Lloyd Bemis (Lloyd)
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William. Sorry for the delay in the reply to your question about my 94 TR. I have not been diligent in checking the site. My TR is black with a black interior. It has about 9000 miles and is a lot of fun. I have owned a first generation Viper before and in the TR once I get moving and get up a few revs it seems quicker than the Viper. Off the line I would bet on the Viper though, especially if I was driving the TR. I really don't want to dump the clutch in the TR and buy a new rear end. The biggest difference between the cars is that when driven hard the Viper could easily bite you. However, when you drive the TR hard it rewards you. The first generation Viper was like the "bad girl". A lot of fun, but you would not want to marry her. I should note that I may just be uninformed as I have had the TR only about a month and have yet to do anything stupid. Speaking of stupidity, which is I topic I know well, it reminds me of a quote from I believe Mark Twain. "Everybody is stupid, just about different things." Same rule propably applies to cars. Each has their strengths and weaknesses. Thank god I am certain that the strengths of a Ferrari justify my decision to spend a great deal of money on 7 year old car even though many of my friends just shake their heads like I am nuts. But hey, their just stupid. | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
|
Not to get into splitting hairs between sports cars but when we parade our Ferraris we are proud to be behind the wheel of such a distinguished car. It is not a 500 hp Toyota or a NSX or what ever, it is a Ferrari and that's what makes the difference. If you don't believe it "Ask the man who owns one." | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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On Kenny's site http://www.exoticcarnetwork.com there is a video that does a really good review of the NSX. Worth checking out, it compares it to a Ferrari many times, so it goes along with this discussion very well. Go to the site, click on downloads, then on topgear, and I think it's the first one. | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
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Originally I think the NSX was meant to be more than a good compromise for fun in traffic. As good as the car is in all of its qualities it just didn't make it into the Ferrari class. BRGDS | ||
| NGSVDO (Azspider)
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I now have a 355 Spider. But in 93 I had an NSX. It was by far the best daily driver sports car I have ever had. Dependable, quick, high RPM fun driving. No it's not a Ferrari but it is exactly what it was meant to be. It is a good comprimmise for fun in traffic. | ||
| Doug Meredith (Doug308)
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http://www.superformance.com/ Check the link to Superformance and their S1 roadster. I,ve stopped by their place in Ohio and they do nice work. | ||
| '75 308 GT4 (Peter)
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I'm sure with that motor its even crazier. Here's that Sylva I had mentioned in my previous post: (bonnet and nose cone removed for photo)    I thought it was quite novel of him to utilise the gauge panel from the bike on the dashboard and all of the switchgear from the handlebars on the steering column. | ||
| James Angle (Jimbo74)
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I believe Caterham makes one with a Hyabusa motor as well. It's a 1300cc suzuki motor. The article said that the only thing in power to weight that comes close is an indy car. The drive said he stomped on the gas and all he could see was the sky. | ||
| '75 308 GT4 (Peter)
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Bike-engined cars (especially Caterham's) are f---ing fast. I had a drive in an equivalent to the Caterham - Sylva Striker - with the Suzuki 1100 in it, in England.... I s--t my pants. http://www.caterham.co.uk (their version uses the Honda Blackbird engine. Top speed: 132mph, 0-60: 3.9sec) | ||
| Michael A. Niles (Man90tr)
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James, the race did not start from a stand still it started around 50 MPH. And I did not say I beat the bike, in fact I lost the subsequent o - 60 run. What I said was the bike could not pass me. He was behind and to the side of me accelerating and although he closed some distance he did not have enough to pass. 2nd and 3rd in the TR are powerful low speed gears!! | ||
| James Angle (Jimbo74)
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Yes, I agree on turns, but during a freeway stint, no way. The top end of an older 1100 with stock gearing is around the 160 mark. So in top end yes (But barely), in mid level acceleration, no way! I would love to try it. On a track, (it would be safer). I have smoke soo many things on that bike, and that's without even working the motor. Nowaday's there are bikes that eclipse the 170 mark, easily. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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Bikes accelerate harder & brake a lot harder but sports cars grab the road better, do high speed turns better, & usually have a higher top end | ||
| Christiank (Christiank)
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James: I had more than one experience. Trust me, you would cry! Christian | ||
| James Angle (Jimbo74)
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This is off topic, But I find it hard to believe that somebody in a TR beat a Suzuki 1100 GSXR. I know that it was during roll-on acceleration,but I think you beat the rider of the bike, not the bike itself. I have a '90 kawasaki zx-10 and the acceleration of that bike from 80-130 mph is nuts. I don't see how any car could match (unless modified) it. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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Lotus X340R, WOW!!! I want 1 | ||
| Greg Rodgers (Joechristmas)
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I have a Lotus Esprit as well and they are Great cars. They are very different from Ferraris in many different ways. They are also a Great Value. Plus I think the Esprit (especially Stevens body) look Phenomenal!!!!  | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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Oh man I love the TR. I need one. Regarding the Lotus, f@cking wicked car. What a bad ass ride, the new V-8 TT will kill a Ferrari in acceleration and just looks so mean when you see it. For the money there is no better car, hands down. I actually love that car to the point of which I would buy one in a second if I could. No better car to compliment the Scuderia's creation in my opinion. Billy took me for a ride in his like two weeks ago, simply amazing. Anyone who says it isn't a devastating car hasn't ridden in one, you guys know how hardcore Ferrari I am, and even I love the Lotus Esprit. | ||
| billy zissis (89tr)
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Slufoot, something is definitely wrong with your car. My 89 tr kicks the hell out of f355 and can keep up with my brother's cbr900 honda. If you want your car to handle better upgrade the rims to 18 in wheels and believe me not only does it handle 10 times better but the steering gets lighter as well. Dave, love your car. Ihave a 99 lotus esprit sport 350 (1 of 8 made worldwide, and only 6 remaining) and let me tell you, I know this is a Ferrari site, but this car will kick the crap out of not only a 360 but a 550 maranello and outhandles both cars. William as soon as I get this car track ready will love to meet up with your 512 tr. | ||
| Christiank (Christiank)
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Same happened to me a few times. The TR is most brutal in long corners. Haven,t yet seen a guy on a superbike without wet pants and thumps up after we raced. | ||
| Michael A. Niles (Man90tr)
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Well said Caribe. I had a 1100 honda super bike open up behind me and I happen to see the downshift. I did the same and going slightly uphill he couldn't pass me. Went up to about 90 but stayed with the bike all the way. At the stoplight he stopped and said -- "No car has ever done that to me -- Cool car". Then he dusted me 0 - 60 but the TR gained his respect big time. A fun Ferrari TR moment. | ||
| Arnaldo Torres (Caribe)
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Slufoot, you better get your car check, because you are really missing on one of the most rewarding car ownerships experiences around, Ferrari or not. I baby my 1990 TR too much, but I have taken it several times on the canyons, and I can attest to the cornering prowess of this car. In one occassion, I have three guys in Japanese sportbikes, suit-up to the teeth, chasing me up the canyon. I could see them in my rear view mirror almost putting their knees down on the turns to be able to keep up. I haven't drag raced the car, and I probably won't but the little I have explored in that department scares the hell out of me. By the way, I red-lined a Corvetter C5 from a dealer just before I drove my car, and I can tell you, the feeling of brute force from the TR is incomparable, even though the C5 is supposed to be faster 0-60. I guess that is what the guys mean when they talk about soul. If soul is the difference you feel when you drive these type of cars back to back, then the TR has plenty of it. Sorry for your loss! | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
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There is nothing better then driving a Ferrari. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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Dave, did u ever meet these pilots, Mike Posner, Stuart Jones, or a intel guy called Joe Malpica. They were all friends & Navy pilots but we've lost touch U going to Cavallino ? | ||
| Dave L (Davel)
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Hi Bill..you are quite the jetsetter id say Im a Naval Flight Officer(goose if you saw Topgun), we fly in the backseats of all multi seat naval aircraft. My back ground is varied and includes the E-2C and the FA-18D(two seat). It beats working I say. Thanks for the comments on my Lotus. Peter has been giving me advice on a GT4 and also I have some feelers out on some 308/328. Needless to say with the Sept 11th events, Ive been keeping some crazy hours. Im not going over, but I have plenty of friends doing the work as we speak on those responsible. I wish I could go as the man who was my best friend in flight school and at Miramar, and a fellow TOPGUN grad with me was killed on flight 175 that day. He pinned my wings on me and was a great sportscar owner as well. You seem to have the stable dujour Be nice to see you in action at the track! Have fun as you travel this winter and keep checking the State Dept web page for travel updates. High profile events are big targets. Fly save...DaveL | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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a Lotus has soul, just ask mario Andretti who won the 79 World Championship in the revolutionary Lotus 79. Nice car Dude, what do u fly in the Navy ? I fly a 512TR, on the deck Michael is also a pilot here & we have Mark AKA Firecopter who flies the whirly things | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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Magoo, that thought took me almost nine months of ownership to totally realize. Accept the Ferrari for what it is, and don't expect it to be something it isn't. | ||
| Jeff Ross (Rsbiomedical)
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Slowfoot that is definitely one of the silliest things I have ever read. Beat by a minivan? Corners worse than a Yugo? | ||
| Dave L (Davel)
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There is something to be said for quality and face it...Ferrari is just now getting the point. The Acura is quality pure and simple. Equating no soul with good quality is irrelevant. To quote the current Ferrari president " I bought a 348 with my own money and it was the worst car we ever built"Thats from an interview in Autoweek a few months back. If that doesnt say to 348 owners what they have, nothing will. The Acura is every bit the car the Ferrari is in its own way. I can relate as I get the same line of crap at car shows and events when I talk to people about my 94 Lotus S-4. OH its a kit car etc. Sure pal, ive put 15000 miles on it in 2 yrs and no major failures of any kind and a big service might cost me a grand. Its book 0-60 time is 4.7!! That was in 94 and Ferrari is just now getting there. I guess all of you will blast my pathetic 4cyl turbo putting out almost 300hp as well. We drive what we like and enjoy the ride. I will get a Ferrari and Im forewarned of the pitfalls that follow. IM sure I will have fun, but keep an open mind and always remember what we say in my business( I fly for the US Navy), "There is always somebody better" and that applies to cars...soul or not. | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
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A lot of Pros and Cons have been expressed here in these threads. What to expect and what not to expect of a Ferrari. I still say you should "DRIVE YOUR FERRARI FOR WHAT IT IS, NOT FOR WHAT IT ISN'T." Know your Ferrari, its powertrain, when to shift at the proper rpms, its handling characteristics and it will respond like the precision instrument it is. Just a afterthought. | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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At redline in my 308 I'm doing almost 40 in first gear and it's geared A LOT lower than TR. I have driven a couple of TRs and have loved it to death which is why I want to get a 512TR in a couple of years. All Ferrari engines are not gonna have real low end power, but once it tachs up a little bit the thing is a rocket ship, totally unlike the 308 which has to be revved even higher and never gets that raw push of the TR. As far as turns, there are very few cars with that size engine that are gonna turn any faster. If your car is off a little bit in timing, fuel, etc it can make it veerrrry slow. I would get it checked cause it seems like a pretty fast car to me everytime I've driven one, and I've been in some unGodly quick cars. Sometimes Ferraris can get a little frustrating, but just give it a little time and look at what you get out of the Ferrari. | ||
| Michael A. Niles (Man90tr)
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Slufoot: Are you "feeling" the redline or are you really redlining it. Are you looking at the tach and actually going to 6800? Sure it feels like redline at 30 but like Ben says first gear redlines much higher. I get 51-53 mph (depending on temp) in first gear. Second is even quicker and by that redline I am at 80. Drive hard and by the tach and it might surprise you. Just be easy on the clutch and trans, no need to be drag racing and hee/toe or double cltuch on the downshift to make things smoother for the car. Personaly I think 4th is the power gear for a good mix of speed and acceleration. I get 90 at 4750 and she is faster in that gear up to 128-130 than any other gear. Kind of scary sometimes seeing 95 then 115 -120 in no time. Unfortunately can't do that too often on public roads. The 512TR is even faster in acceleration (hard to imagine accelerating any faster but it is). In either case, it is above 4750 where the action starts in these cars. Enjoy most of all!! Michael | ||
| Ben Lobenstein 90 TR (Benjet)
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Before I jump into the wolf pack here... what do you mean "feels like it redlines in first gear at almost 25-30mph"???? My speed at redline in 1st gear (90 TR for those who don't know me) is close to 60 mph. And you definately FEEL the torque of launching forward thru ever one of those miles 0-60, but you don't have time to count them in 5 secs. -Ben | ||
| slufoot (Slufoot)
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OK, since I vented a "bit" on my TR, let me detail the good points about the rig. First of all there is no getting around the beauty of the pinifarina styling. I have to admit I love the look of the car. The lines flow amaingly well. The other aspect of the car is the overall ride comfort. I was amazed at the difference of what I believed the car was all about before I purchased it. I thought raw speed and no comfort, but on the contrary, the car is extremely confortable to drive (if your under 6 foot) and is truly a touring exotic. The performance on the other hand, well you already know my thoughts. On the point of reliability, I have to admit, given this exotic, I think I have been lucky with only 2 major repairs. I had second gear worked on and the water pump repaired. I have put over 9K miles on it in 2 years, so I think just driving the damn thing is the number one reason why the service record is minimal. This is also the reson why I'm so critical on the car. I'm critical on every car I drive, so when something is off I will point it out. Michael (man90tr), thanks for the input. Acceleration seems to be slow stagnant probably because the TR feels like it redlines in first gear at almost 25-30mph. Second gear is pretty much the same, very quick reline. Third is the power gear. This is when I can actually start believing about the prancing horse and Enzo's dream. Like I said in my earlier post, after 100mph, the car is pretty damn impressive. At 120-40mph the car feels extremely solid and "true". -Late- Slufoot | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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Mid engine cars can b tricky, to drive slowly, both times I spun on the road , omce in the 308QV, other time in the Countach, I was going very slow, under 10 mph & wasnt paying attention. that weight back there likes to swing around, but thats also what makes mid engine cars so nimble. Also the TR & many modern Ferrari engines r 4 cam & 4 , or more, valves per cylinder. Definately not drag racing material. The 512TR accelerates pretty good off the line, but once I cross 4500 rpm its like an explosion pushing me forwards & over 100 mph this thing accelerates even harder | ||
| Michael A. Niles (Man90tr)
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Slufoot: You should check your car. Something is up. The TR will do 0 -60 in 5 seconds if driven correctly. I have done it timed several times. To get that the engine must be warm 195/200. You don't have to slam the clutch just a good takeoff at 1500 RPMs gets things rolling. Never lost a race to any of the cars you said. Personaly I think that's almost impossible given the cars you mentioned. Come to think of it, haven't lost a race to anything yet that I wanted to beat. A corvette (forgot the model)was a close call but he gave up at 110 so I'll never know. And that's the difference, I have had non-turbo 911s in front of me at 80 and behind of me at 110 and they could never catch me again. A turbo 911 would be another story I think. Never raced one. Ferraris have a "zone" and you have to be patient and enjoy it when it arrives. In fact, all cars have a zone and you have to learn and understand where that is and how to take advantage of it. My acceleration is great, corners are taken easily -- I think your car needs to be driven harder and more frequently and if that does not work I suggest like the guy below says "hook up the other set of sparkplugs". Or maybe your cylinders are hurting for compression or firing is off a bit. That will slow you down in a hurry. Just my 2 cents. | ||
| Christiank (Christiank)
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Does -late- mean. the late slufoot. Run over by a Honda Civic in his TR kit car. lol | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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WOW Slufoot, u just outed yourself as a lousy driver Of course a mid engine car with a lot of weight over the rear wheels is going to handle differently than a Honda Civic, Any1 who has been to a racing school knows this. As for your lack of acceleration, I also suggest u get the car looked at. If u dont care about racing & history etc. why dont u ust get some cheap dumb car that only goes fast in a straight line. Seems all u want to do in a ferrari is drag race, Thats NOT what these cars were built for, they were built for taking corners at amazing speeds. If u keep insisting on drag racing it u will destroy the trans & the clutch As for racing, I get my 512TR on the track as often as possible & I know dozens of Viper, Corvette, Porsche Turbo, & Pantera owners who all wish I would stay home & not blow their doors off & where in God's name did u get a $200 water pump? I want to buy parts from them | ||
| Christiank (Christiank)
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what are all those Honda people do on our forum? Go back in your holes? | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
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I am not sure of the exact # but I believe the TR will do 0-60 in a little over 5 sec. Also I have to believe after it reaches 60 anyone who might be ahead will be hauled in pretty damn quick once those 12 cylinders get going. | ||
| Paul Sloan (Sloan83qv)
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Frank, I have 70,000 miles on original clutch and my 308 QV is a daily driver. Getting ready to put a clutch in, in a few weeks. | ||
| Mitchel DeFrancis (4re308)
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Pathetic acceleration in a TR? Right. You should hook the other set of spark plug wires up. Poor handling? Sure. You've probably never pushed that car on a track to even know what it can really do. A TR water pump for 2 bills? You wish. Hey SLOWFOOT, go get yourself a nice Civic Si and then you can race all those Hondas that beat you in your "TR" and you don't have to worry about those expensive repair bills. You should have known going in, that exotic cars are expensive to maintain....if you gotta ask, you cannot afford it. Sorry if I come off harsh, but you obviously have no idea what driving a Ferrari is all about. | ||
| slufoot (Slufoot)
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I agree with Mark's comments. I have owned a 1991 TR for 2 years now and the only thing I can say about it, is that its entirely all EGO!!! Yes, its ego. Its having the "eye service" of everyone when you drive around town that get most people to throw down the cash for these cars. I don't care about the history, soul, or any vintage prancing horse Enzo crap anyone on this board seems to bring up every single time the topic of overall output is concerned. My TR is absolutely pathetic from 0-60mph and only starts to feel it around 100mph. I can't tell you how many times I have been blown off the line by hondas, acuras, mustangs, camaros, and even one time I damn near lost to a freaking minivan! Most of time people dont even want to race because they think since its a ferrari, it is unbelievably fast. Its not the case. The handling is not even that great. There has been so many times when I lost the back end taking minor corners at low speed. I'm not Andretti but Jesus, I can take my friends Yugo on the same corner with no problems. The car has to be warmed up for at least 20 minutes before you can even think about driving it since you cant get the damn thing into second gear without the warmup. A minor repair will cost more than a monthly mortgage payment. My repair bill for a water pump cost $200 to purchase and $2300 to install. To put is simply, I'm into straight up overall performance and reliability, which basically consists of getting the most bang for my hard earned buck. This is the reason my 91 TR is on the market. -Late- Slufoot | ||
| James Dixon (Omnadren250)
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If you like the reliablility of the NSX, but think it is down on horsepower, why dont you consider a twin turbo supra??? They have 320 hp stock, and with a few tweaks they will be pushing 400 at the rear wheels. Thats what I did and am very happy. James | ||
| Frank Parker (Parkerfe)
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A Ferrari can make a reliable daily driver if you keep it serviced. There is a guy here in Atlanta that uses his TR as one. In fact, it is his only car. He has over 80,000 mile on it and it still has the stock clutch. If you drive them, they're reliable. If you don't, they aren't. Although my daily driver is an M5, I have put over 6,000 miles a year on all five Ferraris I have owned. | ||
| Ben Lobenstein 90 TR (Benjet)
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some thoughts - I was recently at a car show with my TR, a man came up to chat with me and was askimg me about the difficulty in obtaining parts for my car. As we continued to talk I learned that he had an NSX (don't know what year, or if he tracked it) and had been waiting 8 months (so far) for a new A-Arm at a price of about $500 per. No given reason as to why they needed replacing, just he was trying to compare parts pricing and delivery time. OUCH. also there aren't *many* changes over the entire 10 year produciton run: http://www.nsxprime.com/FAQ/General/changesbyyear.htm other than that nice ride (just not *MY* thing) -Ben | ||
| Calvin Chung (Cchung)
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I have a '00 NSX-T and it will be great as a daily driver. I don't have a Ferrari yet but I aspire to get one in the future. I always liked the 512TR and probably could have got a '92 or '93 for just a little bit more than what I paid for my NSX. I chose the NSX because I had a '94 before and it was bulletproof. The NSX doesn't have the prestige of a Ferrari but it is still a great car. I'm hoping to get perhaps a 360 Modena and keep my NSX as a daily driver. If you need more info go to NSXPrime website. I'm a member there and there is loads of information and good forum members to get additional info from. Good luck! | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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Loyd, how do u like the 512TR ? Nice arent they ? What color is yours ? I have a black 93 & a 92 I am turning into a race car | ||
| Lloyd Bemis (Lloyd)
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I just traded in my 1995 NSX for a 1994 512TR. The NSX was a great car. No where near the torque of the 512, but still a lot of fun. I owned a 1991 NSX prior to the 95. Most of the 95s are targa's and you will note a little more body flex than in the non targa pre 95 models. However, the trade off was worth it to me as I liked the roof off and did not track the car. (note rear visibility is reduced with targa due to raised rear deck lid for storage of top.) I also had several small problems with my 91 model and none with the 95. These issues may have been related to age or first year model. Even Honda is not immune to first year issues. As far as daily driving issues, you have a low front spoiler so driving in unfamiliar areas especially driveways can cause damage. (the spoiler is comprised of several levels so if minor damage just replace lower level if worse damage go up a level.) I would also contact your Acura dealer to get costs for services so not surprised. I recommend you post your question at http://www.nsxprime.com/ | ||
| Mark (Study)
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Bret- I think Honda came up with two nice new things on the NSX. -I liked the way the VTEC kicks in, its like having two engines in one car. city/track - Also The all aluminum chassis was very cool. As for the idea that the Ferrari name gives the cars that 'mystery". I guess I never came to the Ferrari camp in that way (I guess I'm not loyal?). I loved Ferrari because they were the most beautiful cars (I love a wedge shape). P-cars just don't have a sexy shape. I guess it's like finding a woman... I let my eyes do the walking and they took me over to the Ferrari everytime. LOL Reminds me of when I read the review on the 348 from Road & Track... "Its like Madona, I'd love to date her..it would be wild fun. But I wouldn't want to marry(own) her". I couldn't belive a car magazine wrote that. Now before 348 people get mad... I have come-around and with the improvements in the later model 348, I am seriously considering 348 spider but leaning more to 355 spider. For right now I'm continuing reading and gathering ideas at FerrariChat as I do my shopping. Thanks guys for all the help. Love this web site! ( but I did want to stand up for the NSX, its really been a great car ) | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
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Bret, If you want to see "Rice Burners" with neon lights under them, on them, around the license plates and any place else they can stick a neon light you should be in Florida. | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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One thing I will give them is that they have some new concept cars that show some design talent. Toyota, Mitsubishi, and Nissan have some nice economical sports cars that will have their own market in the world. For kids that don't have the time of the money to own more expensive cars it will be nice that they can too have some fun. I'd much rather see a 19 year old driving a new Z or Supra than a Civic with a tin can exhaust and neon lights all over it. What I'm saying is that there is hope for Japanese sports cars. | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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I guess Honda did dominate F1 for 2 years, but remember the other 50 years when the Europeans kicked ass... I just don't like how the Japanese knock everything off. They're great at improving things, but can't come up with anything on their own. It's getting to the point where Lexus parts are gonna be directly interchangeable with Mercedes parts. | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
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Mark, Not to be arguementative but it all boils down to ,"It isn't a Ferrari." That name is what makes the car exotic and mysterious. Your testimony about the NSX low maintenance is great but it can't replace the Ferrari image no matter how expensive a Ferrari is to maintain. That's my point, no matter how practical the NSX is it can't overcome the Ferrari image and it's legend. BRGDS. | ||
| Mark (Study)
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I grew up dreaming of a 308 but got a NSX instead. (couldn't afford to miss a day at work). Over 8 yrs, I've had to take it in once, for a problem with AC ( Honda fixed it for free). Now 8 years later...I'm don't have to worry if I miss a few days at work because I'm putzzing around on my car. I just looked at a yellow 355 spider today. Time for my next car but I still enjoy the NSX ( There's something to be said about never worrying about a $20k repair bill out of the blue, for what was supose to be a 15k mile routine maintance). People that say NSX has no History- Remember those two years Honda won every race in F1 ? I am a proud Italian and love Ferrari but Honda kicked ass for two year in the 80's before leaving F1 and moving to Cart. Come on guys give credit where credit is due. Also the "no soul" cry is getting old. I love history, and I love old cars...but I'm twice as impressed by something like New Technology or standards in Manufactoring that make my every day life better. Honda's factory to build the NSX impressed every engineer that took the time to look at the revolutionary new way of assembling cars. Ferrari admits it did some real "SOUL" searching when NSX came out, compaired to 348 build quailty. If a car comes out tomorrow that's better then a Ferrari, get ready to break out the "no soul" battle cry! So we can instantly and reflexivly beat it down. (sorry I'm more interested in the machine then the ghost). So lets Love our Ferrari! but respect the facts... Or it just makes you look like cry-babies. NSX has been a great car. And it helped Ferrari get to the level of build quality we are now seeing in the 360. Give Honda some credit their NSX rasied the bar of respectability in the Exotic car world. PS NSXPrime is place to check before buying NSX | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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I find the NSX styling extremely derivative of the 308 in the front bumpers & a puny little wannabe Testarossa scoop on the side. The front bumper cap is simple ugly, which is why it has been redone on the upcoming NSX refreshing. They should have called Pininfarina or Bertone to craft them something tasty | ||
| Herbert Edward Gault (Irfgt)
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I will always say that if a Corvette and an NSX had a Prancing horse on the front, all these negative feelings toward them would disappear. They are great cars at a bargain price when compared to what Ferrari produces. The difference is the rarity, legend and myth. | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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An NSX will kill a 308 or 328 out on a track (if all three are stock), a 348 should be able to take it. Plus for relatively little money and little problems you can make it into a track beast, an absolte animal. This site here is cool, the guys race NSXs and also each had 355s at on point on the street. There funny as hell too. http://www.nsxfiles.com | ||
| martin J weiner,M.D. (Mw360)
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Had a black/black '91 NSX.Terrific daily driver.Absolutely trouble free but doesn't get the adrenaline pouring out The newer ones with the ?290 hp would dust the 308 and 328 on the track.Still it ain't no Ferrari. | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
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Question, Not being the owner of a NSX and I see someone mentioned track miles,how does it handle in competition compared to a 308 or 328 GTS? | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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Ive got over 400hp in my 92 Mitsu 3000GTVR4, its got 6 piston STillen AP brakes , about the same as 355 Challenge brakes so the brakes r amazing, the power is good, the handling will b better once I install the rear sway bar & move the battery where the rear passenger seat used to be & in nasty conditions it is doqnright amazing how its stick to the track with the AWD But for all that, the 512TR is like a great dance partner around Watkins Glen, It takes less work & its a second faster. The VR4 still seems like a collection of parts rather than one whole as the 512TR The VR4 is a very good car but the 512TR is an excellent car. | ||
| Drew Altemara (Drewa)
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I've used a 91 NSX as my daily driver for about 3 years now. Had a 88 Porsche Carerra before that. Like the NSX better. For about $30K I think its one of the best cars you can drive every day. It's like a "Honda Accord on steroids". Maintenance is very low , easy to drive, relatively quick and I like the look. But it is like a "Honda Accord on steroids" in that it is not that exciting to drive. I like nothing better than taking my ferrari out during the weekend to blast around. The NSX doesn't get your juices flowing. However is is much easier to start, warm-up shift, drive than say a 308. Good luck. Drew Altemara | ||
| Christiank (Christiank)
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I would rather buy a BMW M3 (thinking about for mid next year as the lease for my 540 will end) than a NSX as a daily driver. A NSX is basically a normal car but a Ferrari has a soul. It/s totally different than all other cars, even small technical things are different. I love it. | ||
| William H (Countachxx)
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Kenny, get a VR4, NSX's r ugly | ||
| Frederick Thomas (Fred)
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I think a Ferrari not being reliable is a bad rap due to them sitting in the garage all of the time. A good example is my 308. I bought it from a guy that drove it less then 2000 miles a year. Now if a guy is taking his car out only a couple of times a month an things go wrong with it then it is going to feel like he is always having problems. They are thinking Damn I can't even get 100 miles on this thing with out something going wrong. When I got my car I had minor things go wrong with it but after about 1000 miles of little things. popping up I got it worked out. Since then it has run like a champ and I am very confident in it. I don't know If that makes sense to you guys. As far as the NSX goes I think it is a great car and very nice looking with the bigger wheels | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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I gotta say I agree with Paul, Jap cars don't have any soul when compared to American and European cars (although I guess it's hard to have any soul when you're just a knock off of something else). But at the same time Tino's maintenance record is very appealing. My solution, get a Vette. It's got soul and reliability (and will make some of the guys on this site hate you). | ||
| Paul Sloan (Sloan83qv)
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My 308 GTS QV is a daily driver and is as reliable as any japanese car, this thread has me thinking that somehow some of you think that ferrari's aren't dependable, the fact is, if you use them daily they are reliable and if you have a garage queen then it's best kept there. I drive my car every day and at 70,000 miles it runs like it was just delivered from the factory. An NSX is an engneering marvel but it has no SOUL! | ||
| David Gomaidy (Gomaidy)
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What I would suggest is: An NSX for the frequent track events, daily driving, long cross-country trips, or when your Ferrari is in the repairshop. And keep the Ferrari, for the weekend ride, a treat after a long hard work $ the ocassional track event. The NSX is basically the Japanese Ferrari. | ||
| tino stramotas (Bboxer)
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Here's another plug for the best daily driver. I have owned my NSX for four years now. It's got 33K miles, including track miles. I have changed oil and filter and did one $350 service. Nothing else, nothing ! (tires and brake pads excluded). | ||
| '75 308 GT4 (Peter)
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Magoo, as much as I personnaly said my opinions about the S2000 giving me the feeling of a kitcar, the NSX by far is one of the most under-appreciated sportscars out there. I own a Japanese car as a daily driver, its been months since I looked under the hood. Every time I take the Ferrari out and after parking it in the garage upon returning, I spend at least ten minutes poking around in the engine bay checking things (maybe its my paranoia about f---ing something up during my rebuild). Not a bad thing though, as with pilots doing their "pre-flight" walk-around checks. I know exactly what my car is doing. By the way, do any of you get your finger-tip wet when you check the first weep-hole on the water pump (the one right by the bolt-flange, right under the seal)? Its not dripping out, no puddles on the floor and my tank is right up to the max line and I must've bled the system like ten times already. | ||
| tino stramotas (Bboxer)
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Magoo, William, et al My NSX has a Tubi exhaust and sounds better than my 360. (Not a kit car if you ask me, the Countach was !) It's plenty fast and soon gets 100RWHP over stock with a supercharger kit. I just came back from a 1200 miles trip to the CA wine country (up highway 1) with girlfriend and baggage. No other car could have been more appropriate for this trip. | ||
| William_Huber (Solipsist)
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Yep, Its a Honda Product. If you take good car of one, most likely you will not have any problems. They are Plentiful & a good first time high end collector purchase. You can even not take a bad deprecation hit after two years of owning a used NSX. I would get one! check out kbb.com on resale. Good luck. | ||
| magoo (Magoo)
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Guys, don't get me wrong but why does the NSX remind me of a kit car? This is not to debase your statements about the car, but it always has. Anybody else have that same opinion? | ||
| BretM (Bretm)
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I know I'm a staunch anti-everything-non-Ferrari when it comes to sports cars, but still I have to stand up for Ferrari regardless of the Japanese ability to make a reliable car. Get a 308, drive it like you're Gilles Villeneuve everyday to school (like I did). When maintenance comes around, so be it, do it yourself if you can (you'll learn a lot about cars, a lot, which is worth it's weight in gold in my opinion). When the Ferrari isn't running (trust me there will be days when it isn't running) take your mom's car, or if you can swing it get another car like a jeep or something normal. Until I get my leaky valve cover gasket under control I'll be condemned to the likes of the jeep, but it's not so bad. | ||
| James Dixon (Omnadren250)
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Kenny....... Tino is dead on. You guys say anything you like about the NSX (It's Japanese, slow, sounds like a sewing machine, ugly, dated, has small wheels, is a knockoff of another wedge shaped car) but the one thing you cannot take away from it is the fact that it is as reliable as a Civic. Just make sure you dont get one of the early ones that had the snap ring problem (early 1990-1992 cars I believe). My friend has one, and the only thing he have to worry about is changing the oil and filling up gas. If only it had another 100hp as they feel rather slow under 5000 rpm. Especially when compared with some of the new cars out today. James | ||
| tino stramotas (Bboxer)
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IMHO, the best daily driver there is! | ||
| Kenny Herman (Kennyh)
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Hey, I was looking into getting a used NSX 94 or 95 to use as a daily driver (about 20 miles a day)... I know many of you own/have owned one and was wondering what you think. |