Hey guys,
Interesting you would think that the NSX
(3.0L or 3.2L) would have a broader power band than a 3.5L Nissan VQ35. Granted gearing has everything to do with power to the ground, but the 3.5L VQ in the Maxima, upcoming G35 and current Altima has a more powerful torque curve than the NSX could ever dream of having at any RPM. The NSX is a purely linear HP band with a flat (albeit low) torque curve. Hence, the 4.00? Final drive in the NSX and the 8,000 RPM redline.
The VQ engine series is rather good and often overlooked. It has the same open deck aluminum design as Honda engines, but with a heck of a lot more low, mid and high-end torque. Granted the HP/per liter is not as good, the extra low end torque provides for excellent driveability.
The better question might be from a price standpoint. How does the 350Z compare to the S2000...the 350Z starts around $5000 (26,200-34,000) less than the S2000 AND offers a 3.5L V6, Aluminum multi-link suspension, LSD, HID's, 18" Rays forged aluminum wheels, and even offers 4-wheel Brembo brakes on the Track Model.
Don't get me wrong...I have a 91 NSX...but displacement is displacement and the 350Z is quite the bang for the buck. Delears have been taking orders for a week now...with the 350Z pre-sell program. I'll bet it'll give an NSX a run for it's money, and given the numbers should BLOW AWAY an S2000....
John