A super car

THE Honda NSX is a showstopper whichever way you look at it.

I was lucky enough to drive the original NSX back in 1990 and was delighted to be able to sample one of the early cars again before getting behind the wheel of the new one.

It was a real thrill to feel just how good the first NSX was and why it was billed as the world’s first supercar suitable for everyday use.

Back in the 90s the NSX cost around £70,000 and collectors are now paying that kind of money for good examples. A couple of years ago you could have bought a good one for about £18,000 – a nice investment.

The latest model costs from £149,950 and its fabulous looks set the tone for the incredible driving experience.

Powered by a relatively small 3.5-litre V6 engine, boosted by a pair of turbochargers and no fewer than three electric motors, the NSX develops a cracking 574bhp.

The result is that 60mph comes up in just over three seconds.

Press the button to start things moving and you can surprise your admiring audience by moving off silently under electric-only power.

It is quite a strange experience but press the loud pedal and the car reacts instantly as it sprints through its nine gears at a truly startling pace.

Visibility is good for a supercar and just as well as the countryside flashes by at an alarming pace.

A pure two-seater, the cabin is fairly roomy, although high sills mean there is no elegant way to make an exit.

The four driving modes are quiet, sport, sport+ and track. For the starting price the equipment list is substantial and includes climate control, heated leather seats, sports exhaust, and a free three-year service plan.

The options can add many thousands to the price. My car had special paint at £4,800 and a £7,100 carbon-fibre exterior package.