370 Nismo vs. NSX

wilsonp

I would expect the NSX to be slower in a straight line, but I think for a low torque car the NSX is a little easier to be aggressive in - feel like you have to really take the Z to redline for it to go quickly. Haven't driven the Z aggressively enough to say how curves would be, but it definitely doesn't feel as easy as an NSX in corners.

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2014 Cayman S PDK Sport Chrono White/Black
Was 2009 370Z Touring Sport+Nav 7AT Metallic Black/Persimmon
Was 1991 NSX Auto Black/Black

retiredmd

I previously owned, modified and tracked 3 NSXs and am the current owner of a 370Z Nismo.
On average, a stock first gen NSX (91-96, 270 HP, 5 speed) was typically capable of 13.7s @ 105-106 mph, while later generations (290 HP, 6 speed) were typically capable of 13.2s @ 107-108 mph.
From the standpoint of comparison, the Nismo is faster (in a straight line)than my stock 92 NSX and on a par with my later generation models.
From the standpoint of handling comparison between the cars, one must note that each generation of NSX demonstrated different handling characteristics. The first gen NSXs were purely Coupes; the 91-93 models had 15"/16" diameter wheels, the 94 had 16"/17" wheels. Overall, these NSXs were superior in steering/handling when compared to the Nismo. However, when these NSX owners replaced their rolling stock with 18"/19" wheels and latest tires, it greatly improved their capability.
The 95-96 NSXs were Targa only and suffered from terrible cowl and chassis flex. With the Targa roof off, I could not windshield mount my radar detector as it bounced around. Handling of these cars suffered as a result and was inferior in virtually all respects to the Nismo.
The 1997 and later NSX Targas received far better chassis reinforcement and were very good handling machines-better in most (but not all) aspects when compared to the Nismo.
The real handling/steering stars were the rare, special order 1997 and later Coupes-most especially the limited edition 1999 Zanardi and the post-2002 models. These cars, when equipped with the best tires were terrific machines in all respects.

Mercennarius

First gen NSXs are about on par with a 350Z stock vs stock. 2nd gen NSXs are about on par with a 370Z stock vs stock with the 370Z having the edge. Handling is close between the two.