Purchasing a sports car is always a thrilling experience, and six months ago, I had the pleasure of acquiring a 2017 Acura NSX from Chapman Acura in Tucson, Arizona. This wasn’t just any NSX; it was fully loaded, boasting an original MSRP of $200,500, and came with almost every available option, save for a premium paint finish. The sleek black exterior, paired with a striking red leather and black Alcantara interior, immediately caught my eye.
This particular Acura NSX was a one-owner lease return with a mere 9,600 miles on the odometer and certified pre-owned by Acura. Priced at $127,900, it was a significantly better deal than anything I could find closer to my home in Los Angeles at the time. Adding to the appeal, the dealership offered me a very fair trade-in value for my 2019 Lexus GSF. It was clear they were motivated to sell, having already reduced the price multiple times, making it approximately $10,000 below market value according to Cargurus. The eight-hour round trip to Tucson was undoubtedly worth it, and I couldn’t be happier with my purchase. The 2017 NSX has quickly become my favorite among my collection of six vehicles, which also includes a 2021 Lexus LC500 Inspiration convertible, 2021 Lexus RX450H, 2020 Lexus RCF Track Edition, 2018 Toyota Tacoma Sport 4WD, and a classic 1991 GMC Syclone.
My passion for cars runs deep. I have an extensive automotive background, having served as Program Manager for the GMC Syclone and Typhoon during my time at GM. I also owned a hot rod shop in Ypsilanti, Michigan, and have owned a diverse range of vehicles over the years. From numerous American hot rods to a 2000 NSX, a Ferrari 360 Modena, a 1998 Porsche 911, AMG Mercedes, and various BMWs, I’ve experienced a wide spectrum of automotive engineering. During my time at GM, I even owned seven different 1986/87 Buick Grand Nationals!
My 2017 Acura NSX remains completely stock, preserving its original engineering and design. To gauge its performance, I’ve used a Racelogic Vbox to conduct several 0 to 60 mph tests. I’ve also taken it to Irwindale Speedway on two occasions for 1/8 mile racing, again utilizing the Vbox for precise measurements. I’m happy to share the recorded times, drag strip slips, and even video footage if there’s interest. Recently, the car underwent its 15,000-mile service, which included an oil and filter change, as well as a new air pollen filter. Around the 13,000-mile mark, I unfortunately picked up a nail in one of the original Michelin Pilot 4S tires. This prompted me to replace all four tires with a new set of Continental SportContact 6 summer tires. I found the original Michelins to be quite hard, which limited traction, particularly in colder weather. My best 0-60 mph time with the original tires was 3.21 seconds (with a 1-foot rollout).
The switch to Continental SportContact 6 tires has made a significant difference, especially in traction. With these new tires, my best 0-60 mph time improved to an impressive 2.85 seconds. At Irwindale Speedway, the car achieved 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 achieved in 95-degree weather on a track without VHT.
Looking ahead, I’ve ordered a JB4 tuning box, which I plan to install next week. I intend to keep the modifications limited to this, at least for now. While I’m tempted to install downpipes for the added horsepower and enhanced exhaust note, I’m hesitant due to concerns about passing California emissions tests and potentially voiding the factory warranty.
Overall, my experience with the 2017 Acura NSX has been overwhelmingly positive. It’s a fantastic vehicle that blends performance and technology seamlessly. I’m eager to share more about my impressions, performance data, and future modifications with anyone who is interested in learning more about this remarkable car.
