996 VS Acura NSX

Hi - my first post here and really interested in getting a 911 I narrowed down my choices to only two cars - they are an Acura NSX or a 2002 996 carrera 2 - I am somehow familiar with the NSX but not the 911 I am looking for comments from people who really know both cars and/or compared them (or maybe owned both) as it is a very tough decision for me to make I know the NSX is a very reliable sports car as it is a Honda - but I don't know anything about porsches and when I test drove one, I fell in love - same as the NSX - it is such a difficult decision to make !!!!!!!! any comments on that subject will be appreciated Thanks in advance

Hmmm - kind of like apples and oranges, but I will give it my shot. Everyone I know has been able to (quickly) classify themselves as a german-car guy or a japanese-car guy. I have a friend who thought his 996 was "too bumpy" and sold it in 3 months. However, I own both a P-car and a Lexus, and I find the Lexus a little too refined for me. If you are concerned about gas mileage, maintenance, or repairs, the Acura is probably the way to go. If you like the German feel, the flat-6 sound, and the tight steering, the Porsche is the way to go. Both have about equal utility in my mind. Good luck.

I have driven a friends NSX, so my knowledge is limited. The NSX is a great handling car and fun to drive, but it does not have that "german" car feel. The steering and chasis while refines is some what has a lack of character in it. The engine is very reliable, but lacks some of the 996 lower end punch. It really depends on what you like. Yes there is more maintenance on a Porsche, but its the feel of a Porsche that is something that is hard to duplicate.

I have both and love them. My C4S is the daily driver and currently has around 43k miles. It has proven itself to be fairly bulletproof with only an occassional oil leak bothering me, no big deal so far. The NSX, however, HAS been bulletproof. Not really fair since it only has 13k miles. It is my baby and after all these years, I still love it. No squeaks or rattles still. I will never sell my NSX. As a daily driver, the 911 will suit you better. the back seats, although, virtually useless for adults, can accomodate more gear and, occassionally, my son. They are totally different cars. The NSX, with it's seating position, mid-engine design, and low cowl is a very different experience from most cars I've driven. So, what I'm really getting at is, I don't know . Obviously, if I still have both, I can't decide. I know I love them both. They both suit a different part of my driving fancy. Good luck with your choice and let me know if you need more help. I'll do what I can.

I've raced both professionally in the same series and used both as a daily driver. Whats your intended use and I'll give you the pluses and minuses of each. Once you're done here, go over to NSXPrime.com and ask for their opinion as well. Here you'll get posts biased towards the 996 (what do you expect, its a Porsche board), and there you will get posts biased towards the NSX (conversely, its an NSX board).

Ive owned both so here are my $0.02. I had a 95 NSX-T in Red, ive now got a C4 Cab in Seal Grey I made the switch as i need the back seats for my young son. The NSX seemed to be faster in a straight line off the lights and certainly sounded faster (until i got the PSE installed that is ). The C4 makes me want to look for clear on ramps and corners to accellerate thru. The NSX held it value VERY well. I purchased it for $50k, and sold 5 years later for $39k. Reliability... well the NSX had a coil pack fail and i had to have the cam end and gallery plugs replaced as they started leaking (possibly as i didnt use it enough?) The C4 had the MAF fail only so far. Tires... well they both tear them up... the NSX slightly worse than the C4. 5000 miles on the rear Yoko's... i got about 6000 in the C4 pirelli's I was always nervous to drive the NSX... i didnt like to park it near other cars. Perhaps the Aluminum panels worried me about dents etc. I dont feel nearly as worried about the C4 and drive it every day. They are both great cars, but for me its was all about those "useless" back seats. Oh, one other thing... the wife hated the NSX... too flashy. She thought it looked like the corvette poster on a school kids bedroom wall... the Porsche is way more classy and stylish in her opinion

NSX starts to look outdated. New model coming soon. Take into account that the NSX bodystyle will not be as timeless as the 911's. OK handler but underpowered. Kind of a super ricer

Timelessness is subjective. The design has been around for 15 years.

of the two, i chose 996. nsx is my fav japanese cars but it's too young for me. i want something more mature, practical. the nsx gets looks from kids and teens where as 996 gets looks from every one. the driving experience in nsx is lower, more nimble and tossible. the 996 sits higher, doesn't feel corner as well but it can be if driven well. 996 is more luxurious and updated in technology. it's also safer. 996 appeals to a wider audience. nsx will remain as a childhood dream car that if i owned, i would never sell.

996 classy..NSX flashy... and it is a Honda for crying out loud!!! Yeah yeah an Acura (it's the same) ...Toyota and Lexus...same same..... japanese cars, while they are technicaly superior lack all character!! Just me 2 cents!

I've owned both. Enjoyed both. The NSX is the more exotic sports car, imo. I also think it's much better engineered than the 996. If I had to choose between the two, I'd get the NSX. You can always get a Porsche later -- they're everywhere! It might not matter to you but the NSX will depreciate much less than the 996 (jmo). And as for "character" and "soul", the last 911 that had these mystical qualities was the 993!

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Yes, but it is too bad that the soul of the 993 weighed more than any other 911, including the soulless 996s and 997s, and is slower to boot. I guess you could say that the 993 has the soul and character of an ugly chick in a supermodel body! for those of you who are humor challenged, I am just joking around. I like the 993 too, but get tired of all the "last real Porsche" rants . . .

I've never quite understood the term "character" in cars. A Lotus Elise certainly has character (although here in the States, it uses a Toyota engine). Does a Honda S2000? I don't really understand. Does character have involve money. hmmm. I'd say my 1969 Mercedes Convertible has character. Some might argue it doesn't. Is character subjective also? Don't get me wrong, after 43k miles in my Porsche, I'd say it has character. Most people would say that no Lexus has character. Does character mean you have to put up with compromises, qwerks, cost, or is it low production numbers? Car magazines use this term also. Ah heck, maybe I don't have character.

[QUOTE=BBailey]I've raced both professionally in the same series and used both as a daily driver. Whats your intended use and I'll give you the pluses and minuses of each. Thank you all for the replies - it is a tougher decision to make now - just kidding I will use the car for weekday driving including going to work (8 months per year) - and also occasional track days (3-4 times per year) - I will not use either for winter as I will get a cheap car for winter. also I have two kids, a 3-year old and a 6-month old - I know the carrera has small back seats but I am worried about putting my kids there due to many factors such as stiff suspensions, engine noise, safety, etc... - but maybe I am not 100% correct in that - so I figured both cars would be useless anyways when it comes to family outings - the NSX has only 2 seats and the carrera has useless back seats - but I only want one of these two cars for me !!! any further help based on the above criteria ??

I agree with you. It seems people use the term character as a nice way of saying flaws. It's the same inversion that has happened with good and evil. In the past being powerful, rich, or influential was good and being poor was bad. Now if you're poor or meak you inherit the earth and the rich powerful people are the evil ones....Cars that are fast, reliable, and look good have no soul and things that consume oil, leak, and need regular repairs have character.

Since you have kids, the choice is clear -- 996. With the Porsche, you'll be able to take your kids to school, take them out on weekends around town. It's a very practical sports car. 996 rear seats are perfect for kids. With a booster and a child seat, the rear seats are great. Kids love riding in a Porsche. The suspension on 996 isn't stiff at all compared to NSX and other sports cars. The car is extremely stiff and will hold up fine in a crash. It's not as safe as a minivan or suv in a crash but it's certainly as safer than a compact sedan based on a few accident photos I've seen. Besides, you'll be unlikely to get into an accident in the 2st place. Your wife will like the 996 better as the car is more usable. If you get the NSX, you'll never drive it with any of your family. It'll be something only you will be able to enjoy. Don't get me wrong, I love NSX. If you were 25 and single, I'd definitely recommend NSX. A car is got to fit you and your lifestyle needs. Unless this is a Sunday drive only car (which isn't), you'll be glad you get a 996. Take the family for a spin in it and ask if they like it!

If you're intending on sharing the driving experience with your children, then I think the clear choice is the 996. Regardless of the differences in dynamics, reliability, maintenance expsense, and safety between these two, the NSX will only allow ONE additional passenger any way you cut it. However "useless" the 996's backseats may be (or perceived by many to be), they're still way more useful than having none. My 4.5 and 2 year-old boys love it back there, and that puts an even bigger smile on my face. I've admired and lusted after the NSX ever since its inception, and have even pursued purchasing one. However, it fell out of the running after kids came into the picture.

I'm glad to have both. 911 for the kids to ride in occassionally and the NSX all to myself

Sounds like the 996 fits your uses better. On the track: If you just track your car casually, they will both be fun cars. The newer NSX's might be marginally faster given sticky rubber on both. Modified, the 996 is a much, much, much better track car. On the street: The NSX gets looks but as has been noted, a lot of them are from either engineering types or kids. It won't get you front line parking at a nice restaurant. Though neither will a standard 996, a 996tt cab might, but even thats questionable. Both are adequately fast for the street, both will be outrun by just about any modified car out there. IMO the NSX sounds better with a modified exhaust than does the 996. Stock, I like the 996's sound better. Problem areas: If you drive a 996 hard, pay attention to the rear main seal. We had to replace the one on my racecar every 3 races, we just considered it a wear item. The NSX, not much is going to break. AC on mine went out late in its life but was easily fixed. Don't buy an early car in snapring range. Coil packs occassionally go out due to the way water drains off the engine. Easy fix. If you run the early alignment you will chew through tires on an NSX (hint, run the later alignment unless you drive extremely aggressively). Both fun cars, but different. Sounds to me, the 996 would be a better choice for you simply because it has backseats and would be more functional. Though on the functional end of things, an NSX can carry a passenger and 2 sets of golf clubs in reasonably sized bags. A 996 cannot do that to my knowledge.

[QUOTE=TD in DC]Yes, but it is too bad that the soul of the 993 weighed more than any other 911, including the soulless 996s and 997s, and is slower to boot. I guess you could say that the 993 has the soul and character of an ugly chick in a supermodel body! It's funny that the 996 Targa weighs more than the 993 Targa.

It's an absolute riot! BTW, out of all seriousness though, the 996 targa weighs less than the 993 targa. I think it is less than 50 lbs, but still . . .

Kids love the 911, and on long trips the engine purr behind their heads puts them to sleep quickly (good for parents) No, golf clubs will not fit in the back of the 911.....at least not my 55" driver

I had a 91 NSX for 2 1/2 years, then a 98 NSX for 2 1/2 years, then a 00 C2 for 3 years and now an 03 TT for the last 2 months. I absolutely loved the NSX's They were much more comfortable then the 911's. Fantastic cars. I moved away from them for a couple of reasons. First, I felt like I was getting too old for them. Although I knew they were as good if not better than the Ferrari's of their time, as I got older I started to feel like I was driving a poor man's Ferrari. The other reason is I now have young kids and the NSX was sometimes useless. My kids have used the back seats of the 911's hundred's of times, and they are perfect for them. Until they are old enough for the front seats, I will never own another sport's car. The seats make ALL the difference in how much you will enjoy the car. With all that, I LOVED the NSX's. And golf clubs fit fine. I fit 2 bags not problem in both cars.

I had a 95 nsx-t for about a year and loved it. Did some mods to it before selling it to a friend who hardly drives it now. But then again, I only drove it on the weekends as well. The NSX was great but I just missed the feel and look of the 911. Neither is practical for golfing. although the nsx has a good size trunk for one bag.

I love these subjective posts that somehow always get back to the 993. Character, in my personal opinion, is earned. When I saw neighbor had a 69 Benz , I said to myself, that guy has good taste. I guess it all boils down to: What do you want your car to say about you?

I can get 2 golf bags in my C4 if I put the top down, and pull out the drivers and woods and slip them behind the seat on the floor Sounds like you should get the 996 to me.

My daughters are 8 and 11. They both love going for a drive in the 996. The 11 year old is starting to get a bit tall but the 8 year old fits in the car seat in the back.

Thanks!

Am I correct in the year I am after (2002) to try and avoid the early problems such as the RMS ??? Also enough people told me that I can drive the carrera 2 in the winter on ice and snow with no problems at all using good winter tires - how accurate is that ?? I can't afford a C4S - actually my ideal number is 35K but I wanted to stretch it to $45K to get a 2002 due to the increased performance and less problems - again - am I correct with that assumption ???

newer is better and yes you can drive it in the winter on some 17" snow tirers....

I've always loved the styling of the NSX. It really is a distinctive looking car on the road (much more so than any 911), it simply looks like nothing else. I've also wanted one since I was about 21 but the fact that it only has 2 seats is a deal-breaker. The back seats of a 996 are very useable for children (and even suitable for emergency use of mid-size adults...they won't like it but it's better than you get with the NSX). Like someone else said it comes down to what you're looking for in a sports car.

Porsche refuses to truly solve the RMS problem on entry level 911s. Even 997s aren't immune. I think the 996 model marked the passing of the baton from the engineers to the accountants at Porsche!

I have a 99 Carrera 2 coupe and have two kids (5y/o daughter and 7 y/o son) and as far as the Carrera's back seats go...they serve my purposes just find. They're not huge by any means but you can use them for the kiddies for short trips about town and such. The usual for me is pickups after school or trips to the tutor or store or something. Grant it if I am going far I'd use my daily driver (an M3) as it has lots more room but if the kids are as small as you say; then you will get at least 4-5 or more useable years out of the 911 as far as the back seat goes. Car seats will be a problem and you'll have to get the ones that are specially fit for the carrera since your kids are smaller than mine but othewise I agree with everything else said above. Good luck

Never having owned an NSX but a fan of one, I find this thread very interesting. Very mature responses. I'm proud to be a member of this forum . I own a C4S, but I don't drive it in the snow/ice. The AWD is about performance, not about use in the snow. Although it is obviously an advantage to have all 4 wheels turning in the snow, the C4S AWD is engineered more towards traction on all 4 corners while taking tight and fast turns in the dry. It gives it that solid "on rails" driving feel. To give credence to the enhanced performance direction, the 996 C4S comes standard with sport suspension, wider rear track, bigger brakes, bigger wheels and tires. What I am saying is that don't stretch your budget further trying to get the C4S because of perceived snow advantage. There is a slight snow advantage over the C2, but the bigger advantage would be performance in the dry. The C2 is fine in the winter, so long as the snow is not several inches deep. A few of the C2 owners in my club use them year round. Just get a set of snow wheels/tires, and drive sensibly. As far as stretching the budget to get a 2002, go for it. The '99-01 911's are excellent cars, excellent buys. RMS is blown all out of proportion, and shouldn't really be the focus of your decision making. However, '02 was the year of major upgrades in the 996 line. Bigger engines, higher HP, stiffer chassis, better suspension, as well as interior and aesthetic upgrades. I personally like the headlights of this series. They are not only unique, they look pretty darn good. I don't care much for the earlier 996 headlights, and the 997 headlights are simply retro.

I think the NSX styling looks very dated now.

Character results from traits and qualities that make the subject unique and easily distiguished from others. For example, take an air-cooled 911, cover any Porsche emblems in the interior, take some average Joe Blow off the street, blindfold him, put him in the cockpit of said 911, and remove his blindfold. He will immediately guess that he is in some sort of German sports car even if he's never been in a 911. Replace "air-cooled 911" with 996 in the above scenario. Mr. Blow will see that he's in some sort of expensive modern performance/luxury car -- most likely either Japanese or German. The ergonomics and features are clearly of the highest quality, but not particularly characterful. The cockpit, the sounds, the styling (or lack of), all add up to a distinct character.

C'mon, guys. This thread is about a choice between an NSX and a 996. 993 is not even in the picture, and is not in contention. Don't get defensive and turn this into another dead horse 993 vs 996 thread . Just stick to the thread, or stay away.

The character issue arose when somebody bashed the NSX for being devoid of said trait, as is commonly done on P and F boards. Since this came up in a thread comparing the 996 to the NSX, I think it's fair to comment on the 996's character, or the lack thereof. imo, nobody should be justifying buying a 996/997 on "character" grounds. Bling, yes. Character, no.

What an asinine statement.

one more criteria.. for exclusivity, get the NSX. But make sure you test drive. I test drove a 95 NSX and I hated it.. felt like a cheap car. Then test drove my friend's 96.. night and day and wanted one! Both cars supposedly ok..

My thoughts exactly but it still catches my eyes on the road.

God you are always looking to pick a fight. 993 is god, 996 is ****, blah blah blah. Seriously quit trolling the 996 board and head back to 993 land where you can pride yourselves (in solitude) about having the "real 911s". And every time you get in your car remind yourself it doesn't look OLD, it looks "real".

I actually test drove enough NSXs - I am very picky when it comes to cars and have to test drive cars enough times and sometimes own it for 3-6 months to see if it is my car or not - I just came out of a 2001 E46 M3 - although a nice car, liked the test drives - but after owning it for 6 months, didn't care much for it - mainly because it felt heavy, and the gearbox is garbage and the suspension is waaaaaaaaaaaaay too punishing - that's why I am taking my time in deciding - but contrary to you, I found the NSX to be an awsome car to drive - and does not feel cheap at all - from the front view when you are inside the car, to the wonderful and amazing gear box, to the amazing balance and feel of the car (but definitely not the amaaaaaaazing 996 steering and road feel) - so to sum up the comparison ( my opinion ), the NSX has better looks, better front view when driving, better gear box, better seats, I like the interior better, and more reliable - and the 996 has a better engine (more torque), better steering and chassis, better brakes as well as the use of the back seats which a lot of people here cleared that issue for me. That's excactly why it was such a tough decision to make !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! - but I guess it is easy now (due to the kids)

I think you misunderstood me.. I am saying that between 2 NSXs (95 and 96) that I test drove, one felt super cheap, the other, was awesome, night and day difference. Both were claimed to have been babied. So I dunno, maybe for these cars, make sure u test drive them before u buy them.. they vary in feel that much. Or maybe i just had a bad car and a great car in test drives. the "good" NSX convinved me enough to want it, quite a 180 degree change from when I hated it. IMO, the 996 is believe it or not the practical car.. but the NSX is the more fun and exclusive car.

I had a 95' NSX for 9 months before it was stolen. I then test drove the 96' as a replacement. I really don't remember there being a major difference except some added HP. I loved the car and was pissed when it was stolen. The only negative thing I could say about it is that the cockpit not up to par with German or Italian cars. It is very Japanese feeling. It wasn't a huge deal to me, but it might be someone else. I don't think you can go wrong with either car.

gcohen, Sorry to hear about your loss, but I'm just curious to know if there's anything we can learn from your unfortunate experience. Did you ever get the story on what happened? Was the thiefe/thieves ever caught?? Was the car stolen by a sophistacted band of car thieves or just punk kids out for a joy ride??? Was the car stolen when it was left running and unattended or did the thieves have to work hard to pull of the caper? Was there anything you could have done differently to prevent the theft??? Again, I'm really sorry to hear about your misfortune, but I can't help but wonder if there's something we can learn from your experience.

I bought the car in October of 95. I was living in Manhattan and commuting to Brooklyn everday. I parked the car in a fenced in lot across the street from my warehouse. The car was stolen in May of 96 on a Thursday. The police were notified and I never heard anything back from them. I settled with the banks after 30 days and moved on. 2 years later I get a call from the FBI impund in New Jersey saying they have my car. I laughed and told them to call the bank that bought it from me when it was stolen. As for who stole it, I'll never know for sure. I believe whoever it was saw the car originally in Manhattan and followed me to Brooklyn. They probably watched it for a couple of days, saw it was left all day and then made their move.

just to clear something up - i am able to fit 2 sets of golf clubs in the back of my c4 - with my driver in the bag (a taylor madr r540). my kids (2 boys) really love going anywhere in the porsche as well. especially when we go around a corner or turn onto an onramp aggressively - they just giggle excessively & say weeeeeeeeee!!!!! btw they are 6 & almost 5. my decision was between an m5 & the 911. the place i purchased it from let me take it home for the night & i tested out the feasibility of the kids in the backseat. the 911 won me over with the looks & the true sports car feel with the added bonus of a useable backseat.

My daughter says that my 996 Targa is like a roller coaster. I think it is hilarious, but I wish she would stop saying it around my wife and in-laws.

So I guess after I was determined to sell the NSX (just for the practicality of having extra 2 seats in the 911 for the kids), I can't get myself to let it go. I actually put it in the trader 3 times (yes 3 times) and everytime I take it off the list - so I have decided to wait and save for a 911 and keep the NSX I think having both cars will be the ultimate My target is 3 years to buy one and I hope the 997S will be in the 50s range by then (although I doubt it) - if not, I will settle for an 02 996

P7, You would be surprised. My dad took a Cayman in trade today - $72k sticker new in May... $60k today. I realize it's not a 911, but Porsche has bumped up production numbers of all their models in the last few years (compare the 993 and 996)... Justin

I have been thinking about a 996 in my future, but the engine issues have me quite worried. I have worked in automotive design/engineering for 12+ years and find it quite appauling that Porsche can't make a car that is at a reliability equal to cars that are 1/2 the price (Corvette). The NSX while a little dated has a look that has become a bit iconic for import performance. The cars are bulletproof, and can take boost to boot. Imagine a mid/rwd 450+WHP monster that doesn't break easily. I am still torn, I love the P-car, but engine failures that despite growns from members here assuring me it's overhyped, are a great concern. Corvette/mustang/nsx/ forums aren't littered with so many "so i've replaced my motor" threads.

Sounds like you need a Corvette, Mustang or NSX. You wouldn't like a Porsche :-)

Sold my 993 and my NSX today and am lookinf for a 996.

I was talking to a Porsche service manager a few weeks back and asked him if he saw many issues of a particulr type (I forget now what we were talking about) and he said, "oh yes, Porsches are terrible, all I ever see are broken ones " This board is hardly representative of the Porsche world. Go and google to see if you can find a board that only says good things about Porsche/Corvette/BMW/whatever.......it doesn't work like that!! If you did a real-world poll on engine failures, I really don't think Porsche is going to be too close to the top........

I would like to see real world numbers on the % of 996 failures... I just don't have the facts. I know that books written on the 911 that include a section on the 996 talk at some length on the oiling system and seal failures. So that alone makes me wonder how common of an issue that is. The trouble is when you mention it on a P-car board you get fanboi's suggesting you should not get a porsche, and that porsche's are going to be costly to maintain... Wha...wha.. what, you'd think that an entry level 70K car would be a little more reliable. Heck if Honda can reach Lexus level reliability out of a 8K revving V6 why can't Porsche? But talk like this will get you flamed at time... that I just don't get.

I think you may be taking it the wrong way. I personally think the problems are overhyped bigtime. I don't have sufficient data to back it up. I do know that life is too short to worry about things like this. If it really bothers you this much, maybe it means you shouldn't buy one . . . really . . . and I don't mean this to be obnoxious, condescending or sarcastic. Either get comfortable with the idea that the car will probably be fine and that it will not be the end of the world if you are one of the unlucky ones, or look for a different type of car. I think it will be impossible as a practical matter for you to get emperical data, and even if you could, you wouldn't find it on a public BBS.

Exactly. When I said you probably wouldn't like it, I wasn't trying to be sarcastic. I think you want some reassurance that all will be well, that isn't going to happen. If you buy a 996 and it does blow up, will it be the end of the world, will you be able to get it fixed? I guess my what I'm saying is, if your going to worry yourself sick over it, it's probably not worth it, and your better off with a Mustang/Vette or some other belly button.....sorry couldn't help myself. Not trying to be a dick about it.....but if you won't be able to relax and have fun with it.....look at other options.

If you want a Porsche buy one. The motors are great. Do they have issues? Some I had a rear main seal issues and Porsche took care of it no questions asked. Replaced the seal 4 times then put in a new engine.Others would tell me to live with the leak. I have 40,000 miles on my GT3 with 19,349 track miles and the motor is strong and never any problems. If you are looking for a car that will spend time at the track and remain reliable you can not do better.

you ppl worry too much. if it blows up, buy another one. you play you pay. i have had four 996, three gt3, three boxster S, three cayman s, only one RMS. i had the so called bullet proof e36m3 (all stock motor) i blew it into pieces. i have 6 close friends on WRX, 3 are stock, 3 are way overboosted. eveyrone blew up (they are all hardcored trackers). someone mentioned nsx. yes, in stock form, very reliable, if you run them at 450hp, they blow up, everyone of them, if you actually pushed it. if you intend to drive a car hard they all break, engine is a disposable wear item just like brake pads, and rotors. i used to think a good motor last forever, that's BS. you push them, you rebuild them, you blow them up, you rebuild again. it's part of the game.

"you ppl worry too much. if it blows up, buy another one. you play you pay." Said like a man with to much money... I understand that most P-cars haven't had any issues, I just want to understand fully what I am in for if I buy a Porsche. I do not have a huge income and so "just buy a new one" isn't that simple. I will look much closer at the 996 and the NSX as my options, I want the Porsche as I think it will fit my needs better (back seats rock). But the NSX can't be iggnored either, and with that level of reliability it's even harder. I do understand that any motor can break, but for the price Porsche demands I expect them to be far above the rest, not below. Engineering a car is engineering a car. *shrug*

I think what most of us are trying to tell you is that we cannot fairly give you the assurance you seek. I honestly do not think you will have any problems IF you buy a good used car. That said, my assurances mean absolutely nothing. You will probably be fine. If you cannot afford to deal with a problem if one develops, then get an extended warranty OR put your dream of a Porsche on temporary hold and wait until you really can afford one (i.e., buy one without worrying). The minute I start worrying about door dings or mechanical problems, then I will sell my car and get a cheaper one that I can drive worry free. There are cars that I would love to get and could afford to get, but I don't get them because I would not drive them on the track like they deserve to be driven because I would worry about damaging them. For this exact reason, i drive a 20 year old Porsche on the track. And I drive the snot out of it (most of the time). And I don't worry about it (even when I put it into a wall at 87 mph). That worryfree joy is priceless. Don't understimate the importance of this principle.

Somebody help Gregg find a 996 Cab. He sold the 993 and the NSX and is now driving a Guards Red/Black Yugo with an aero kit

I understand what you are saying TD and it makes great sense.

2000wrx, it's unlikely you'll get the assurance you need even if you had empirical data. Your pocketbook won't care how low that failure % is if yours ends up to be in that %. Sometimes, it's just the luck of the draw. You can perform due diligence as much as possible, but it's still no guarantee. All used cars (whatever the make) will have potential issues, large or small. The Germans just cost more to repair, and that's an inescapable fact. As TD has pointed out, if the idea of Porsche ownership is worrisome and keeps you up at night, then it's likely not a wise choice for you, personally or financially. Please do recognize that our seemingly "cavalier" attitude toward repair costs isn't a sign of arrogance or indication of financial prowess. We're all just trying to fully enjoy our dream machine like it was meant to be. Any time spent worrying is time taken away from our enjoyment. One more thing. Don't be so intolerant of the perceived Porsche engineering "shortcoming." While price tag oftentimes reflects level of quality, it isn't necessarily a measure of reliability. Are you of the mindset that all high-priced autos should be as mechanically reliable as Hondas and Toyotas? There are many other factors that go into the pricing of any consumer goods.

Does anyone who is talking about the NSX actually own one ?... or just repeating stereotypes and magazine speak ? Ive owned both 996 and NSX and as far as reliability and repairs go, they are exactly the same. I had a 95 NSX bought at 14,000 miles and owned it for 5 years. I that time i had a coil pack go bad, i had gallery plug and cam end seal leaks ($1700), the coolant bottle started to leak. The 996 is a 2001 bought 5k miles ive owned 2 years. It has had a bad MAF, an aging O2 sensor and i needed a new back window for the cab top. The NSX needs timing belt changes every 5(?) years for approx $1200-$1500, the 996 doesnt (but you can replace 2 RMS for this price). The early NSX had a snap ring issue for a few years that destroyed the tramsmission, the early 996 had a liner issue that destroyed the engine. Im not bashing the NSX... i really loved that car, but its a machine and it may/will breakdown. Just because its from Japan, doesnt make it a Honda Civic.

"Engineering a car is engineering a car." Um, yes, but you have to understand what engineering means. It's about tradeoffs, in the case of an engine tradeoffs among specific output, driveability, emissions, reliability, durability, NVH and cost. Every call a designer makes tries to balance those priorities. When you ask an engine to give you a specific output approaching a usable 100hp/liter, you're already setting the bar high. Make it streetable and comparatively affordable, and you have a real challenge. I think Porsche does a pretty good job of it.

dated thread

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Dated thread, but I would like to clarify: - Minor coolant lost over time, replaced the coolant bottle in 1996(?) and seems fine in the past 20 years. Maybe time for another one... More importantly, replace coolant hoses every 10-15 years, parts and labor in the range of $1200 IIRC many years ago. - transmission damage is possible if one keeps driving the car after snap ring failure. Mine failed after 20 years 60K miles or so. Needed a new snap ring (obviously) & transmission case (manufacturing defect in late 1991 and early 1992). With a new clutch and JDM short gears, it definitely costs way more than the $1500 I budgeted in 1996 when I learned about the defect. - A very common problem is the window regulator. Genuine replacement part costs more than 2x the one in my 996T.

I've owned and driven lots of different euro hot rods and Porsches, but in my experience, the NSX was quite boring to drive. Uninspiring as a Camry. Just my opinion, and I couldn't find the yawn emoticon. A lot more useful to just park and look at, they look great.

Former Honda fan here. Took a test ride in a new 2002 NSX, the engine sound killed it for me, sounds just like a V-6 Accord which is a great engine, but not for a sport car. When I shop for a car the engine is one of the most important components. I couldn't stand to hear that Honda

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Years ago I did some laps at Willow Springs in a NSX...quick, competent, but for me it was boring. I didn't enjoy the interior, I never felt connected to the controls of the car, and I never thought much of the lines...sort of a Lotus by committee. It certainly is a good car, but never a great car. Cironi has a new test on the Nissan GT-R Super Car. He marvels at its excellence and speed...and in the end wishes it had been made by men with dirty hands instead of by a team of thousands all in white lab coats. Its just old school vs new school.

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Sure...

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I had two separate drives in the NSX in 1993/1994 both on public roads and for a total of around 20 miles. I worked for an Acura retailer at the time and it was the hottest car they had (well, that wasn't difficult since the next hottest car was the Acura Legend coupe ). I loved it and imagined owning one someday. Years later and lucky enough to own a Carrera I still like the NSX but realize it would not have the same sports car experience.

Two thousand and ****ing six. Jesus.

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Yup, the 996 is old.

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I know... He was actually referring to the fact that this thread was created in 2006 and is being debated as if it was just created. Someone, who shall remain nameless at this time, responded to an almost 10 year old thread..........

So what? If someone wants to reply why shouldn't they?

Just to give this thread the update it desperately needs...here is the 2016 Acura NSX from Barrett-Jackson. Me likey....

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They can do whatever they want. Last time I checked, it was a relatively free country and for the most part, people can do whatever they want. That being said, I think I can comment on the fact that the tread was resurrected from the dead. I found it kinda funny actually that this was a topic that was being debated back then, and was an entertaining insight into the past. You, good sir, should calm down. Go for a drive. have a drink. play some golf. Ok, maybe not golf, but seriously. chill out. And gonzo, that does look amazing.

The new NSX is one fugly car! Seeing it in person it looks like the designers tried way to hard and overdid every angle on the car. To each their own but it's just way too over the top for me. Fugly is being kind.

Yep, styling cues from a 10 yr old Lamborghini. "Where else can we put some hard lines and more duct work? Oh, here's a spot..."

"Ok, maybe not golf, but seriously. chill out. And gonzo, that does look amazing." And why not golf? Truly an amazing game... I bet you can't get a set of clubs in a NSX... I've had them in my 996 several times. There's no accounting for taste...To each his own etc...

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Well, the side is 10-year-old Lambo...the front looks like 5-year-old Accord.

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Yea, golf is one of those things that can be amazing on one shot, and wanting to throw the whole set of clubs into a water hazard 2 shots later. Well, for me it is.

To me it stole more from McLaren than Lambo. Here is the new Ford GT...

I think the original NSX prototypes that we saw a few years ago had a very R8ish look with the Acura design cues. I still think there is a bit of r8 in there but more McLaren. I actually like the looks. I think the old NSX looks have "aged" much much better than the 996 and so has the s2000. I have always wanted a 911, but took a hiatus when the 996 was around. Just did nothing for me. The original NSX forced everyone to step up their game in the early 90s which was good for all consumers. The GTR did the same thing in the late 2000s. For $155k, I think it's a pretty good option. We shall see how it performs when they start testing. The "accord motor" comments remind me of people that say the 911 is just a glorified VW bug. Whatever. Look at what Lotus does with the Elise as well as the Evora (NSX numbers were similar to the Evora, and that's a 25 year old car). When the Evora came out I thought to myself "haven't we seen this recipe before?" Except I think Honda did a better job 25 years ago than Lotus does now.

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My sentiments exactly. There are always going to be people who don't like something new when it comes out. There were people bashing the 996 when it first came out because of the headlights and being water-cooled, etc... some people can't handle things that are new or change things up. the NSX was a game changer back in the day as you stated. even today, it's one of those unicorn type vehicles where, if you can find a clean one, you will still pay top dollar. and other manufacturers still try to emulate what was done with the NSX (such as the Evora). That being said, I'm enjoying my 996tt very much but would definitely not hesitate to buy if I found a nice NSX.

Life is short. Get both

So...the NSX argument rages...the mysterious role of the number 100 in Porsche legend is explored...flywheels and cheap tires are considered. The debate rages about whether ragging your car out causes any wear, some used car buyer is a ****, and eBay sucks (or one of us is stupid). This is a good week in the 996 forum.

To anyone still debating the NSX vs 996 Im just going to put this scientifically backed article here... This is from an NSX owner himself

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FTFY Just kidding! I couldn't resist.

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I wasnt referring to myself as the NSX owner so I do agree haha