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Acura · Sports Car · 1991–2005

Acura NSX NA1

Weaknesses, engine ratings and buying advice

★★★★★
3.0 / 5.0 · Based on 2 engine variants

Generations

Engine Overview

The Acura NSX NA1 is available with 2 engine variants — from 256 to 284 hp. 1 variants had engine changes — the model year is crucial.

3.0L V6 VTEC · Petrol· 252–270 PS Engine Change
1991 2001
Be Careful 1 weakness
Show all weaknesses →
1991 2001
Be Careful 1 weakness
Show all weaknesses →
3.2L V6 VTEC · Petrol· 284 PS
2002 2005
Be Careful 1 weakness
Show all weaknesses →

The Acura 3.0L V6 VTEC (Petrol, 252–270 PS) comes with 2 different engines: C30A (1991–2001, Be Careful) und C30A (1991–2001, Be Careful). Pay attention to the model year for the 3.0L V6 VTEC!

The Acura 3.2L V6 VTEC (Petrol, 284 PS) has the C32B (3.2L V6 VTEC) — rated: "Be Careful", 1 known weaknesses.

NHTSA Owner Complaints
Above Average
9 complaints · 1991–2005
Brakes
3
Hydraulic
3
Tires
3 ⚠ 2
Engine & Cooling
2
Powertrain
1

Top Reported Issues

⚠ Brakes (3 complaints)
⚠ Hydraulic (3 complaints)
⚠ Tires (3 complaints)
Source: NHTSA (nhtsa.gov) · 2026-04

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Known Problems and Issues

A total of 2 weaknesses have been documented for the Acura NSX NA1 (1991–2005).

NSX (C30A, 1991–2001) — Be Careful: Timing Belt — Critical 60k Mile Interval. Power: 270 PS.

NSX (C30A, 1991–2001) — Be Careful: Timing Belt — Critical 60k Mile Interval. Power: 252 PS.

NSX (C32B, 2002–2005) — Be Careful: Timing Belt — Critical 60k Mile Interval. Power: 284 PS.

What to watch out for with the Acura NSX? See the detailed listing of all engine and vehicle weaknesses in the sections above.

Frequently Asked Questions

What problems and weaknesses does the Acura NSX NA1 have? +
The Acura NSX NA1 has 2 known engine weaknesses.
What should I look for when buying a used Acura NSX NA1? +
faq.watch_a_none
Which engine is recommended? +
Be careful: C30A (3.0L V6 VTEC), C32B (3.2L V6 VTEC). No engine is rated 'Good Choice'. The most fun to drive is the C32B (3.2L V6 VTEC).
Which Acura NSX NA1 engine is the most fun? +
The {code} ({displacement}) offers the most driving fun in the Acura NSX NA1 — rated: "Legendary!". {description} C32B makes 290 hp naturally aspirated. Senna dialed in the suspension at the Nurburgring, chassis 50% stiffer than prototype — because Senna said it felt fragile and Honda listened.
Is the Acura NSX NA1 worth buying used? +
The Acura NSX NA1 requires careful consideration — choosing the right engine variant is crucial.
What horsepower variants are available for the Acura NSX NA1? +
The Acura NSX NA1 is available with engine variants from 256 to 284 hp. Petrol: C30A (3.0L V6 VTEC), C32B (3.2L V6 VTEC).

Last updated: February 2026 · All information without guarantee