Honda NSX

vs

Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans

Japan vs Germany — 1990 vs 1994

Honda NSX (1990)
Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans (1994)
Specifications
NSX Type R (NA1)Dauer 962 Le Mans
Horsepower290 hp730 hp
Torque224 lb-ft516 lb-ft
Engine Size2,977 cc2,994 cc
0-60 mph5.0 sec2.6 sec
Top Speed174 mph251 mph
¼ Mile13.4 sec9.7 sec
Weight2,712 lbs2,381 lbs
Wheelbase2,530 mm2,770 mm
Length4,430 mm4,800 mm
Units Produced18,00013
Original MSRP$89,000$1,000,000
Value (Excellent)$250,000$8,000,000
Collectibility9/1010/10
Rarity5/1010/10
The Verdict

Numbers favor the 1994 Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. The 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1) offers better value, and has its own devoted following. For those who let their heart decide, either car delivers a rewarding ownership experience.

Overview

The rivalry between Japan and Germany automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1) versus 1994 Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1994 Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans holds a clear advantage in raw power with 730 hp compared to 290 hp, a 440-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Honda NSX uses a V6 DOHC VTEC (C30A/C32B) displacing 2,977 cc, while the Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans relies on a Flat-6 SOHC Twin-Turbocharged 12V with 2,994 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1994 Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans edges ahead at 2.6 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. The Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 331 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 13 units built, the 1994 Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans is considerably scarcer than the Honda NSX's 18,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1994 Porsche Dauer 962 Le Mans commands a significant premium over the 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.