Six months ago, I took the plunge and acquired a 2017 Acura Nsx from Chapman Acura in Tucson, Arizona. This wasn’t just any NSX; it was fully optioned, boasting an original MSRP of $200,500, only missing a premium paint selection from its extensive list of features. The car’s black exterior, paired with a striking red leather and black Alcantara interior, immediately caught my eye. Being a one-owner lease return with a mere 9.6K miles and Acura Certified Pre-Owned (CPO) status, it presented a compelling opportunity. Priced at $127.9K, it was a significantly better deal than anything I could find closer to home in Los Angeles. Adding to the appeal, the dealership offered a very fair trade-in value for my 2019 Lexus GSF. The price had already been reduced by the dealer, and Cargurus even rated it approximately $10,000 below market value at the time of purchase. The eight-hour round trip drive to Tucson proved to be well worth it, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. It has quickly become my favorite in my collection of six vehicles, which includes a 2021 Lexus LC500 Inspiration convertible, 2021 Lexus RX450H, 2020 Lexus RCF Track Edition, 2018 Toyota Tacoma Sport 4WD, and a 1991 GMC Syclone.
My automotive passion runs deep. I was the Program Manager for the GMC Syclone/Typhoon during my time at GM and even owned a hot rod shop in Ypsilanti, Michigan. Over the years, I’ve owned a diverse range of vehicles, from classic American hot rods to a 2000 NSX, Ferrari 360 Modena, 1998 Porsche 911, AMG Mercedes, and various BMW models. Notably, I even had seven different 1986/87 Buick Grand Nationals during my tenure at GM.
Currently, my 2017 NSX remains completely stock. Eager to explore its performance capabilities, I’ve used a Racelogic Vbox to record several 0-60 mph sprints and taken it to Irwindale Speedway twice for 1/8-mile runs, again utilizing the Vbox for precise measurements. For those interested, I’m happy to share the recorded times, drag strip slips, and video footage. Recently, the car completed its 15,000-mile service, which included an oil and filter change along with a new air pollen filter. Around the 13,000-mile mark, I encountered a nail in one of the original Michelin Pilot 4S tires, prompting a switch to a new set of Continental Sportcontact 6 summer tires. I found the original Michelins to be somewhat hard, limiting traction, especially in colder temperatures (40s to 50s in the mornings). My best 0-60 mph time with the stock tires and a 1-foot rollout was 3.21 seconds.
The new Continental Sportcontact 6 tires have made a significant difference in traction. With them, I achieved a best 0-60 mph Vbox time of 2.85 seconds. At Irwindale Speedway, I recorded a 1/8-mile time of 7.144 seconds at 98.84 mph with a 1.681-second 60-foot time and a Vbox 0-60 mph of 3.00 seconds – all in 95-degree weather and on a track without VHT preparation.
Looking ahead, I’ve ordered a JB4 tuning box, scheduled for installation next week. For now, this will be the extent of my modifications. While I am tempted by downpipes for increased horsepower and a more aggressive exhaust note, my concerns about passing California emissions regulations and potentially voiding the warranty are holding me back.
In conclusion, my initial six months with the 2017 Acura NSX have been incredibly positive. It’s a fantastic machine that delivers impressive performance even in its factory configuration. I’m eager to share more detailed impressions, performance data, and any future updates as I continue my ownership journey. If you’re interested in learning more about my experiences or seeing the drag strip times and videos, please feel free to ask!
