Prospective Acura Nsx 2019 buyers often have questions about the realities of owning this supercar day-to-day. Common concerns revolve around ground clearance, potential damage from curbs and inclines, and the long-term costs associated with high-performance components. One owner shares their insights and experiences, offering valuable advice for those considering an Acura NSX 2019, particularly regarding practical aspects like front lip protectors, brake choices, and overall maintenance.
Navigating the Urban Landscape: Curb and Incline Challenges
It’s no secret that supercars, with their low-slung profiles, can be susceptible to scrapes and damage in everyday driving situations. The Acura NSX 2019 is no exception. The primary issue isn’t necessarily curbs themselves, but rather poorly graded parking lot entrances and abrupt inclines. These situations can pose a significant challenge, requiring careful maneuvering to avoid damage to the front lip and undercarriage. Owners of similar low-riding performance cars, such as R8s and Porsches, often encounter the same problem, highlighting that this is a general concern for this class of vehicle, not unique to the Acura NSX 2019.
Speed bumps also demand a cautious approach. To minimize the risk of scraping, it’s crucial to approach them straight on and directly in the center. In some particularly challenging situations, discretion is the better part of valor, and turning around might be the most prudent course of action to protect your Acura NSX 2019. Even with careful driving, minor scrapes underneath the nose are possible, as one owner experienced with their 2017 model.
Front Lip Protectors: A Smart Investment for Your Acura NSX 2019
To mitigate the risk of front-end damage, many Acura NSX 2019 owners consider front lip protectors. The previous owner of a particular 2019 model installed a scrape protector, which the current owner deems a worthwhile addition. For minor scrapes, especially on non-metallic paint, touch-up paint can often suffice for repairs, keeping costs down. However, a more significant impact, particularly involving carbon fiber components, could lead to considerably more expensive repairs. This is a key consideration, and a reason why some owners advise against opting for carbon fiber on the lower sections of the car, where damage is more likely.
Carbon Ceramic Brakes vs. Iron Rotors: Cost and Maintenance Considerations for Acura NSX 2019
When evaluating an Acura NSX 2019, particularly on the used market, understanding the brake options is crucial, especially concerning long-term costs. Unlike some performance cars with distinct base and higher-performance trims, the Acura NSX essentially has a single performance level. The primary difference in price between a $205k and a $165k model often boils down to around $40k worth of carbon fiber elements and carbon ceramic brakes (CCB).
While carbon fiber is largely aesthetic and offers minimal performance benefits on the street, the choice between CCBs and traditional iron rotors has significant implications for maintenance and ownership costs. For street driving, the standard steel brakes on the Acura NSX 2019 are exceptionally capable, providing ample stopping power. CCBs, while offering advantages in extreme track conditions, can be less practical for everyday use. They can exhibit reduced initial bite when cold and introduce a separate, potentially expensive, maintenance regime.
The Liability of Carbon Ceramic Brakes: Maintenance and Replacement Costs
For Acura NSX 2019 owners, both in and out of warranty, carbon ceramic brakes represent a potential financial liability. CCBs necessitate specialized maintenance procedures and, when replacement becomes necessary, the costs are substantially higher than iron rotors. Automotive experts and personalities have highlighted the exorbitant out-of-warranty replacement costs associated with CCBs, making them a less appealing option for some owners focused on long-term running costs.
Due to the expense of CCB brake pads and rotors, some Acura NSX 2019 owners who track their cars even opt to switch to girodisc iron rotors specifically for track days. This underscores the practical and economic advantages of iron rotors for many owners. Iron rotors are not only significantly cheaper to replace but can also be resurfaced, extending their lifespan and further reducing maintenance expenses. Replacement costs for CCB rotors can easily reach $10,000 per axle, whereas iron rotor replacements are a fraction of that price. Furthermore, iron rotors are more resilient to everyday road hazards. A rock caught in a caliper, for instance, is less likely to cause catastrophic damage to an iron rotor compared to the more brittle nature of carbon ceramic rotors, where such an incident could necessitate a costly $5,000 rotor replacement.
Resale Value and Options: Focusing on Practicality for Your Acura NSX 2019
A crucial point for prospective Acura NSX 2019 buyers to consider is that carbon fiber options and carbon ceramic brakes do not typically translate to increased resale value. Market analysis of wholesale and auction prices, along with real-world trade-in experiences, confirms that these high-cost options are not recovered upon resale. Instead, the key factors determining the value of a used Acura NSX 2019 are its overall condition and verifiable maintenance history through Acura.
Practical Advice for Acura NSX 2019 Buyers
For those in the market for an Acura NSX 2019, especially on the used market or even when considering a new model, opting for a version equipped with iron rotors presents a compelling case for reduced maintenance costs and minimized long-term expenses. An Acura NSX 2019 with iron rotors offers the same exhilarating performance and driving experience as a CCB-equipped model for everyday driving and even spirited track use, while significantly reducing potential maintenance liabilities. Prioritizing the condition of the car and a documented Acura maintenance history are the most important considerations when purchasing an Acura NSX 2019, ensuring a more practical and financially sound ownership experience.
