Some cars in automotive history are forever linked to their nicknames, and the Honda NSX is one of the most iconic examples. It earned the moniker The Poor Man’s Ferrari when first released. But it wasn’t just because the car looked like a Ferrari; Honda aimed to create a supercar that could challenge Ferrari’s dominance in terms of both performance and price. The poor man’s label wasn’t just about its appearance – it also referenced the car’s practical ownership costs and usability for everyday driving. While most people saw this as a metaphor, one Honda NSX owner in Switzerland took it literally.
For the past 18 years, this owner has been transforming his NSX into a Ferrari in his unique way. The result is a custom-built replica that’s even more meticulously crafted than the original Ferrari. Incredibly, the cost of this project now rivals that of an actual Ferrari. This one-of-a-kind vehicle is now up for sale, and the project has once again drawn attention from car enthusiasts worldwide.
A Honda with Ferrari Flair: Almost Perfect in Appearance
This isn’t just a simple replica – it’s an alternative supercar. The creator sought to build a car that mimics a Ferrari’s design, sound, and performance and stays true to the Honda NSX’s reputation for durability and reasonable maintenance costs. The body was reworked entirely, drawing inspiration from the Ferrari 360 Modena, and several parts, including the lighting, use genuine Ferrari components.
The car has been named Ferrari 361. The name blends inspiration from the Ferrari 360 with the last digits of the NSX chassis number, 361, symbolizing more than just a nod to the original Ferrari – a deeper connection. The 17-inch front and 18-inch rear Work Meister wheels perfectly complement the design, while the mid-engine layout, resembling Ferrari’s proportions, integrates seamlessly. This is not just a copy; it’s a refined interpretation that exemplifies exceptional craftsmanship.
A Supercar with Honda’s Heart and a Beautiful 6-Cylinder Sound
Inside, the car is finished with premium leather and red Alcantara, with Ferrari’s signature emblem etched into the seatbacks. The titanium door sills sport genuine Ferrari plates, and a MOMO steering wheel, aftermarket infotainment system, and carbon-style accents elevate the interior’s craftsmanship. The attention to detail goes beyond simple tuning, establishing it as a serious, high-quality creation.
Under the hood, the powertrain is based on the original 3.0L VTEC V6 from the Honda NSX, with output boosted to 296 horsepower. Paired with a manual transmission and a stainless steel exhaust system, the car produces a thrilling exhaust note that marks it as a supercar. With around 98,000 km (about 61,000 miles) on the odometer, it has recently undergone significant maintenance. For the last 18 years, a single enthusiast has owned and cared for this car, with official registration documents and Honda service records available for reference.
Lower Maintenance Costs Than the Real Thing, Presence Beyond Compare
This unique car is priced at €75,000 (about $80,000), which aligns with the current used market price of a Ferrari 360 Modena in Europe. While the exterior has been meticulously crafted to resemble a Ferrari, the maintenance costs remain affordable, true to Honda’s nature. Ironically, despite the immense time and effort poured into this project, this NSX is currently considered one of the cheapest manual NSXs in Europe.
The car is listed for sale in Switzerland, though delivery from Germany can also be arranged. The seller, a collector with 17 cars in their collection, is also open to trade offers for other vehicles. While this may not be an actual Ferrari, it’s a testament to passion, craftsmanship, and meticulous attention to detail. Somewhere between reality and imagination, this NSX could be the most creative interpretation of the Poor Man’s Ferrari yet.
