1991-2005 Acura NSX: Full Review
Updated: 12/17/09
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Learn about the year-to-year changes and reliability for the 1991-2005 Acura NSX and our price chart details a range of prices based on vehicle mileage and condition.
Pros
- Acceleration
- Antilock brakes
- Build quality
- Exterior finish
- Interior materials
- Standard traction control
- Steering/handling
Cons
- Cargo room
- Entry/exit
- Fuel economy
- Price
- Rear visibility
- Ride
Vehicle Highlights
What some observers considered to be Acura's "Ferrari-fighter" went on sale in summer 1990, accompanied by considerable fanfare. Part of that fanfare had to do with price, because this new entrant from Honda's luxury division was the most expensive Japanese-brand car on the U.S. market. Because of its instant popularity,too, dealers began to sell them for more than sticker price. An all-out midengine sports car, the new NSX 2-passenger coupe had a body and suspension made of aluminum. Transversely mounted in the middle, between the seats and ahead of the rear axle, was an aluminum 3.0-liter V6 engine, with dual overhead cams and variable valve timing. All of the initial NSX coupes had 5-speed manual transmissions, and the V6 produced 270 horsepower. When a 4-speed automatic transmission arrived a few months later, the engine in that model dipped to 252 horsepower. An NSX could accelerate to 60 mph in a swift 5.6 seconds, according to its maker, and run a quarter-mile in 13.9 seconds. Acura intended to offer no more than 3000 cars per year in the U.S. market. Chassis features included a fully independent suspension, antilock all-disc brakes, traction control, Yokohama A-022 tires (205/50ZR15 in front and 225/50ZR16 out back) on forged aluminum wheels. Acura claimed to be the first manufacturer to offer electrically driven power steering, but it was available only on models with the automatic transmission. Standard equipment included a driver's airbag, leather upholstery, air conditioning, 4 speaker Acura/Bose stereo system power windows, power locks, a tilt steering wheel, and automatic climate control.
Expert Ratings Summary (view detailed report)
| Category | Acura NSX T Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 9 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 10 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 46 |
Learn about the year-to-year changes of the 1991-2005 Acura NSX. Get full details of the styling and performance changes throughout the history of the 1991-2005 Acura NSX.
Year to Year Changes
1992 Acura NSX:
Little was new for Acura's sports car in its second season.
1993 Acura NSX:
Except for a new passenger-side airbag and seatbelt pretensioners, not much change was evident for 1993. The center console was redesigned, with an integral cupholder.
1994 Acura NSX:
Few changes occurred this season, other than tires that grew in size. Up front were 215/45ZR15 tires on new 7-inch forged alloy wheels. At the rear, 8.5 inch wheels held 245/40ZR17 rubber. Power steering remained unavailable with manual shift. Standard leather upholstery now was available in tan color, as well as black or white.
1995 Acura NSX:
The '95 models went on sale late in the season, and only in NSX-T form. That meant a removable roof panel, which could be stored in a compartment behind the seats without cutting into cargo volume. Acura also turned to structural reinforcement, upgrading to meet the 1997 Federal side-impact standards. A new "drive-by-wire" throttle system was installed. Electrical power steering, previously available only with an automatic transmission, could now be installed with manual shift as well. The automatic transmission gained a SportShift feature, controlled by flipping a lever on the steering column.
1996 Acura NSX:
Both regular and Targa-roofed (NSX-T) coupes went on sale in 1996, without significant change.
1997 Acura NSX:
A bigger engine went into the 1997 NSX, and a new 6-speed manual transmission edged aside the 5-speed unit. The new 3.2-liter all-aluminum V6 produced 290 horsepower. Brakes were enlarged, and the NSX again came in regular coupe or targa-roofed (NSX-T) form.
1998 Acura NSX:
Following adoption of a larger engine and 6-speed in 1997, little change was evident for '98.
1999 Acura NSX:
Alterations to Acura's sports car were minimal for 1999. Both the fixed-roof coupe and the NSX-T, with removable center roof panel, remained available. Model choices include the base coupe, T (Targa) coupe, and special Alex Zanardi Edition.
2000 Acura NSX:
For its 10th year on the market, the 2-seater got revised upholstery. Leather trim on seats, door panels, steering wheel, and hand-brake handle now was perforated. Acura also claimed improved manual-shift action.
2001 Acura NSX:
For 2001, an emergency opener was added inside the trunk which is behind the engine. No-cost carpeted floormats were the only other change for this model year.
2002 Acura NSX:
NSX got its first noticeable appearance changes. The previous fixed-roof model was gone, leaving only the NSX-T with lift-off roof panel. New were Xenon headlamps, larger exhaust ports, wider rear tires, and revised suspension. A 4-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift feature became available.
2003 Acura NSX:
No changes for '03.
2004 Acura NSX:
Keyless entry and a trunk-mounted CD changer were added for 2004.
2005 Acura NSX:
NSX goes on unchanged for 2005, its last year. Acura plans end production at the end of 2005 and replace it in 2008 or 2009.
Our road test for the 1991-2005 Acura NSX includes a full evaluation from the inside out. We've evaluated every aspect of the 1991-2005 Acura NSX and highlighted the vehicle's performance with pros and cons. Use our comprehensive road test ratings to decide if this generation 1991-2005 Acura NSX is right for you.
Consumer Guide® Road-Test Evaluation
Honda's luxury division basically broke the sports-car rules with the NSX. For a high performance "exotic," the NSX is extremely refined, reliable, and at least modestly practical. Acura's sports car offers a unique combination of race-car engineering, performance, and looks, along with its pragmatic virtues. Not only is this 2-seater extremely fast, but it's also smooth, surprisingly quiet, and easier to drive than most high-performance cars. Despite smallish engines, acceleration rivals that of the V8 Corvette and the late-'90s Porsche 911. Our tests bore out Acura's performance claim, with 0-60 mph acceleration in 5.8 seconds. Even economy is impressive. A late-model 6-speed NSX averaged a relatively frugal 22 mpg. Sure, some folks might crave more raw power, but an NSX offers most of the rewards of a true exotic with almost none of the usual drawbacks--except for its high price. The well-behaved automatic transmission is only slightly less rewarding than the 5- or 6-speed stick. Handling ranks among the world's best. Steering is precise, though heavy for parking if not equipped with power assist. Cornering is flat and stable, braking short and true, noise levels acceptable. The ride is firm, but supple enough for such a high level of performance. Standard traction control enhances wet-road safety, but can be switched off when not needed. On the down side, the low nose demands some caution around dips, parking-lot barriers, and certain speed bumps. Despite road-hugging styling and a midengine layout, an NSX affords easier entry/exit than most sports cars, including the Corvette, plus the best visibility of any exotic automobile. Over-the-shoulder views are poor, however, and the top of the dashboard reflects in the windshield. Strong sunlight can wash out the electronic climate and audio displays, too. There's enough cockpit space for husky 6-footers, and the dashboard is as user friendly as a Legend's. Seating is low-slung but comfortable. Luggage space is sparse.
Value for the Money
Although early models were selling new for as much as $100,000 (or even higher), demand eased after a year or two, sending transaction prices below MSRP. Secondhand too, an NSX is a lot more expensive than a Corvette or a Porsche 911, yet it lacks the pedigree of similarly priced Ferraris. Still, it's almost worth that high dollar figure because of its blend of refinement, performance, and appealing ergonomics.
Although early models were selling new for as much as $100,000 (or even higher), demand eased after a year or two, sending transaction prices below MSRP. Secondhand too, an NSX is a lot more expensive than a Corvette or a Porsche 911, yet it lacks the pedigree of similarly priced Ferraris. Still, it's almost worth that high dollar figure because of its blend of refinement, performance, and appealing ergonomics.
Expert Ratings Summary
| Category | Acura NSX T Rating | |
|---|---|---|
| Performance | 9 | |
| Fuel Economy | 6 | |
| Ride Quality | 2 | |
| Steering/Handling/Braking | 10 | |
| Quietness | 4 | |
| Controls/Materials | 7 | |
| Interior Room | 5 | |
| Room/Comfort (rear) | 0 | |
| Cargo Capacity | 1 | |
| Value within Class | 2 | |
| Total Score: | 46 |
Each vehicle report contains one rating chart for representative model. Consumer
Guide® rates in ten key areas: Performance, Fuel Economy, Ride Comfort, Steering
and Handling, Interior Noise, Controls and Materials, Driver Room, Passenger Room,
Cargo Capacity, and Insurance Costs. These ratings compare the particular vehicle
rated to ALL other vehicles, not a vehicle's standing in a particular class. In the
ratings table, "1" is the lowest rating and "10" is the highest rating.
Our reliability study for this generation Acura NSX includes details on average repair costs, manufacturer recalls, and everything you need to know to gauge the long-term reliability of this generation Acura NSX .
Trouble Spots
Consumer Guide's® Auto Editors have scoured repair bulletins and questioned mechanics to search
for commonly occurring problems for a particular vehicle. In some cases we also give possible manufacturer-suggested
solutions. In many instances these trouble spots are Technical Service Bulletins posted by the manufacturer,
however, we have our own expert looking at additional vehicle problems.
Audio system:
The in-trunk CD magazine may not eject if it is the old style. To check for its replacement, look for the Honda logo on a label on the side of the changer. (1991-93)
Audio system:
Arcing between the ignition coils and spark plugs, which can be heard as radio interference, requires replacing the ignition coil(s). (1995-97)
Automatic transmission:
Water can get into the transmission and cause damage because the original breather tube was too short and improperly positioned. (1991-92)
Brakes:
The ABS quits working because of a leaking modulator solenoid. (1991-92)
Doors:
The door lock knobs can fall off if they are not screwed down onto the rod, which causes the rod to drop down inside the door. (1995-97)
Doors:
The door for the gas cap may not open when the release lever is pulled, requiring replacement of the cable and hinge spring. (1991-96)
Oil leak:
If oil pressure gauge reads low at idle, a new oil pressure sending unit and/or gauge should be installed. (1991)
Steering problems:
Unless the recalled control unit has been replaced, the electronic power steering will fail at ignition if the wheel is moved. (1997)
Consumer Guide® Estimated Repair Costs
This table lists costs of likely repairs for comparison with other vehicles. The
dollar amount includes the cost of the part(s) and labor (based on $50 per hour) for the
typical repair without extras or add-ons. Like the pricing information, replacement
costs can vary widely depending on region. Expect charges at a new-car dealership
to be slightly higher.
| Item Name | Repair Cost |
| A/C Compressor | $870 |
| Alternator | $525 |
| Automatic Transmission or Transaxle | $1,730 |
| Brakes | $550 |
| Clutch, Pressure Plate, Bearing | $960 |
| Constant Velocity Joints | $805 |
| Exhaust System | $1,115 |
| Radiator | $945 |
| Shocks and/or Struts | $2,420 |
| Timing Chain or Belt | $510 |
Our price chart for this generation Acura NSX details a range of prices in
year-by-year listings based on vehicle mileage and condition.
| Prices | Good | Average | Poor |
|
|
|||
| 2005 | |||
| NSX | $52,000-55,000 | $48,900-51,700 | $39,000-41,300 |
| 2004 | |||
| NSX | $47,000-49,500 | $44,200-46,500 | $34,800-36,600 |
| 2003 | |||
| NSX | $42,500-45,000 | $40,000-42,300 | $31,000-32,900 |
| 2002 | |||
| NSX | $39,000-41,000 | $36,300-38,100 | $28,100-29,500 |
| 2001 | |||
| NSX | $34,500-36,500 | $32,100-33,900 | $24,500-25,900 |
| 2000 | |||
| NSX | $32,000-34,000 | $29,800-31,600 | $22,400-23,800 |
| 1999 | |||
| NSX | $29,500-31,500 | $27,400-29,300 | $20,400-21,700 |
| 1998 | |||
| NSX | $27,000-28,700 | $25,100-26,700 | $18,100-19,200 |
| 1997 | |||
| NSX | $24,500-26,000 | $22,800-24,200 | $15,900-16,900 |
| 1996 | |||
| NSX | $22,500-24,000 | $20,700-22,100 | $14,600-15,600 |
| 1995 | |||
| NSX | $20,500-22,000 | $18,900-20,200 | $13,300-14,300 |
| 1994 | |||
| NSX | $18,500-19,800 | $17,000-18,200 | $11,800-12,700 |
| 1993 | |||
| NSX | $16,700-18,000 | $15,200-16,400 | $10,700-11,500 |
| 1992 | |||
| NSX | $15,000-16,000 | $13,700-14,600 | $9,500-10,100 |
| 1991 | |||
| NSX | $14,000-15,000 | $12,700-13,700 | $8,500-9,200 |
|
|
|||
This chart details a range of prices in year-by-year listings for vehicles in three condition levels:
Good: a clean low-mileage, solid-running vehicle that needs little or no repair.
Average: a car with normal miles on the odometer, perhaps a few scrapes or dings;
engine might need a minor repair or two, but runs acceptably well.
Poor: might have potentially dangerous problems with the engine and/or body, or
abnormally high mileage; definitely in need of mechanical attention. Valuations
reflect wholesale prices paid by dealers at auction, and retail prices on used-car
lots. Each range covers all trim levels and engine types for a vehicle with a typical
amount of equipment--usually an automatic transmission, air conditioning, stereo,
etc. Fully loaded vehicles may cost more. Average mileage is 12,000 miles per year. Keep
in mind that these are guidelines only. Actual selling prices vary- especially from
region to region.
Specs for this generation Acura NSX include everything from fuel mileage to seating capacity to options availability.
Vehicle Dimensions
| Specification | 2-door coupe | |
| Wheelbase, in. | 99.6 | |
| Overall Length, in. | 174.2 | |
| Overall Width, in. | 71.3 | |
| Overall Height, in. | 46.1 | |
| Curb Weight, lbs. | 3066-3153 | |
| Cargo Volume, cu. ft. | 5.0 | |
| Standard Payload, lbs. | -- | |
| Fuel Capacity, gals. | 18.5 | |
| Seating Capacity | 2 | |
| Front Head Room, in. | 36.3 | |
| Max. Front Leg Room, in. | 44.3 | |
| Rear Head Room, in. | -- | |
| Max. Rear Leg Room, in. | -- | |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
||
Powertrain Options and Availability
Two versions of the same engine were available in the early NSX, depending on the transmission choice. With an automatic transmission, the car got a 3.0-liter V6, rated at 252 horsepower. With 5-speed manual shift, the V6 developed 270 horsepower. With a 6-speed manual gearbox, available since 1997, the powerplant has been a 3.2-liter V6 that produces 290 horsepower. Available in 2002 models by special order was a 4-speed automatic transmission with manual-shift feature.
| Engines | cu. in |
Horse- power | Torque | Transmission: |
Consumer Guide Observed |
| dohc V6 | 3.0 / 181 | 252-270 | 210 | 5-speed manual: 18/24 4-speed automatic: 18/24 |
5-speed manual: -- 4-speed automatic: -- |
| dohc V6 | 3.2 / 194 | 290 | 224 | 6-speed manual: 17/24 | 6-speed manual: 22 |
|
Specifications Key: NA = not available; "--" = measurement does not exist. |
|||||
Built In: Japan
Drive Wheels: transverse mid-engine/rear-wheel drive
Detailed safety information for this generation Acura NSX include detailed crash test scores from the NHTSA.
NHTSA Crash-Test Results
Vehicle crash test information not available at this time.The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) tests a vehicle's worthiness in front- and side-impact collisions and rates its resistance to rollovers. Front-impact crash-test numbers indicate the chance of serious injury: 5 = 10% or less; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-35%; 2 = 35-45%; 1 = More than 45%. Sideimpact crash-test numbers indicate: 5 = 5% or less; 4 = 6-10%; 3 = 11-20%; 2 = 21-25%; 1 = More than 26%. Rollover resistance numbers indicate the chance for rollover when the vehicle leaves the roadway: 5 = Less than 10%; 4 = 10-20%; 3 = 20-30%; 2 = 30-40%; 1 = More than 40%.
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