Honda NSX: PH Carpool

Jenson Button's old NSX, now in the hands of a caring PHer and on 158,000 miles!

Name: Michael Pariera
Car: Honda NSX 2002 NA2 (I have two more, one in Formula Red and one in Imola Orange!). I also have a Honda Integra DC5, a Honda Beat PP1 and a BMW M3 CSL.
Owned since: 2014
Previously owned: Two other NSX facelift models. Three Volkswagen Corrado G60s, lots of Civic 1.6 VTIs!

The original owner is somewhat well known

Why I bought it:
"The NSX was the poster on my wall growing up; as a Honda nut it was the pinnacle of its engineering to me. People often say "don't drive your dream car", but after I drove one it was 100 times better than I ever imagined! I had two NSX models, both with low miles, so when this high mileage example came up it was an excuse to buy it and add more miles. It's now on 158,000 miles on the original engine, clutch and gearbox! It also belonged to Mr Jenson Button, who has autographed it. There were rumours it was written off but that's some forums for you."

What I wish I'd known:
"Without sounding like a fanboy, probably the amount of attention it draws."

Things I love:
"The list is endless; the noise from the cockpit is like nothing you will ever hear. Blipping a downshift is sensational. The ride quality is perfect. Great performance when driven properly. 360-degree view from inside, based on the F16 plane. The low seat position."

Still on the original engine and gearbox

Things I hate:
"Some NSX owners put the car down because they are intimidated by others with badge snobbery! Not to sound like a fanboy again, but I can drive a GT3 RS of any generation and then jump in an NSX and feel at home! If I had to pick one thing it would probably be just the size of the steering wheel; it could be smaller. S2000 size would do."

Costs:
"Solid reliability - same clutch on 158,000 miles. Rev matching is key I think. I change the oil myself or go to a Honda specialist such as Kaz off NSXCB forum, sometimes Honda if it's a dealer that sees enough of them. I change the oil every 3,000 miles and it costs me £70 a time. Cambelt change can be expensive, but needed once every eight years. People moan about tyre wear but I have never noticed this. Done 10,000 miles on the same tyres and lots of life left."

Where I've been:
"The supercar event at Dunsfold, Ace Cafe and plenty of Sunday drives."

What next?
"I'm in talks with Torque GT for something very special and NSX related..."

Want to share your car with PHers on Carpool? Email us at carpool@pistonheads.com!