Acura
NSX
Ferrari
F355
Acura NSX vs Ferrari F355: 2022 Comparison
The short answer
Based on available data, the Acura NSX comes out ahead of the Ferrari F355 on power. Check the specs table and owner sentiment below for the full comparison before deciding between the two. Both are covered by real owner reports on CarWizz.
Specs side by side
What owners say
NSX
Overall
Overwhelmingly positive sentiment approaching legendary reverence for first-generation model, widely regarded as revolutionary supercar redefining exotic car reliability, usability, and everyday drivability. Praised extensively for exceptional Honda build quality enabling routine 200,000-300,000+ mile operation without major mechanical failures, precise handling dynamics teaching Ferrari and Porsche lessons in chassis balance, comfortable ergonomics allowing daily driving unlike temperamental Italian competitors, and timeless aluminum body construction preventing rust. The naturally-aspirated 3.0L V6 producing 270-274 hp delivers linear, predictable power delivery with intoxicating VTEC engagement at 5,800 RPM and 8,000 RPM redline.
Best version to buy
3.0L Manual Transmission (1991-1997, pre-facelift) The 1991-1997 pre-facelift models with 5-speed manual transmission represent purest NSX expression - lightweight aluminum construction (approximately 3,000 lbs / 1,361 kg), naturally-aspirated 3.0L C30A V6 producing 270-274 hp, fixed headlights (1991-1993 pop-ups add 60 lbs / 27 kg), manual steering maintaining ultimate feedback. The 1995+ NSX-T targa variant adds removable roof panel but 100+ lbs (45+ kg) weight penalty and reduced chassis rigidity.
Known issues
- ⚠• Snap ring transmission failure (1991-early 1992, specific VIN range), snap ring retaining countershaft breaks causing catastrophic transmission failure, affects transmission range serial numbers J4A4-1003542 through J4A4-1005978, repair r…
F355
Overall
Extremely positive sentiment regarding the car's design, driving experience, and emotional appeal, but this is heavily tempered by a very strong and consistent consensus on prohibitively high and complex maintenance costs. The F355 is widely praised as one of the most beautiful and elegant Ferraris ever made, with its V8 engine sound frequently cited as one of the greatest of all time. It is described as the "best analog Ferrari ever," offering a visceral, rewarding, and nimble driving experience, particularly with the gated manual transmission.
Best version to buy
Manual Transmission (Gated) models are strongly preferred over the F1 electro-hydraulic semi-automatic transmission, with the manual cited as a key part of the pure, analog driving experience. The Berlinetta (coupe) and GTS (targa) are both highly regarded, with the Spider (convertible) sometimes mentioned as the least desirable body type, especially in undesirable colors.
Known issues
- ⚠Prohibitively expensive maintenance: Engine-out service required for timing belt replacement, cited as costing $15,000-$20,000+. Very frequent.
The verdict
The Acura NSX is the better choice for most buyers.
It has more power on its best-equipped version than the Ferrari F355, based on the data above. If efficiency matters more to you than outright power, the Ferrari F355 is worth a closer look instead.
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Frequently asked questions
Which is more reliable, the Acura NSX or the Ferrari F355?
Owner reports show similar reliability sentiment for the Acura NSX and the Ferrari F355. Check the known issues listed above for specific differences between the two.
Which is better for families, the Acura NSX or the Ferrari F355?
Both seat a similar number of passengers based on our data. The Acura NSX is classed as a Coupe, the Ferrari F355 as a Cabriolet, which affects cargo space and ride height for family use.
Which has better fuel economy, the Acura NSX or the Ferrari F355?
Fuel consumption data is limited for one or both models. Check the specs table above for the figures available on each catalogued version.
Which is cheaper to maintain, the Acura NSX or the Ferrari F355?
Exact maintenance costs aren't in our data, but reliability signals above are the closest proxy: fewer reported issues generally means lower repair costs over time.