NSX 1 = Senna; NSX 2 =Alonso!?

[goldtop]

Wondering if Honda will want to repeat the F1 driver relationship for marketing of the new NSX? As they are about to re-enter F1 with McLaren, the obvious candidate would be Alonso (if the paddock rumours at the time of writing are true). Got to admit that I feel no warmth for him. It would surely have a current driver and a WDC winner, too.

Or... assuming that the new McLaren (P13, Black Swan or whatever it's called this week) will be an NSX competitor, there's zilch chance of a McLaren F1 driver doing PR for Honda's road cars.

Wild card: it's built in the USA and so perhaps there's an Indy Car driver lined up?

[NSX 2000]

Well I would be more than happy if they turned to Dario Franchitti. Indy Car Champ 4 times, all with Honda engines.

[L696ULO]

If McLaren kept Button then Honda would have a driver that had a first gen NSX to promote the new one

[Pride]

And JB is someone who is totally respected and trusted in Japan, Britain and USA, it's a no brainer to me.

[goldtop]

I guess that Franchitti's post-accident condition means that he can't do any purposeful driving for development input? But it makes sense for him to play some role in the USA.

Button would seem a natural, but all the signs are that his star is waning somewhat.

Hmmm...

[Pride]

Button would seem a natural, but all the signs are that his star is waning somewhat.

Hmmm...[/QUOTE]

Waning??? No way!
Check out last Sunday, most people realise that if JB was given the right car he could well be King again, he has an affinity with the origanol NSX, he speaks Japanese, and on top of all that he's well liked and respected where ever he goes.
I still reckon Honda will have a major say as to whether maclaren get rid of him for next year or not and if he does eventually go I wouldn't be at all surprised if he went to the states and did a Mansell, as he's still got it in him.
Only time will tell.

[goldtop]

I still reckon Honda will have a major say as to whether maclaren get rid of him for next year

Yes, but the fact that JB's so downbeat at the moment is telling. Seems Honda has not pressured McLaren on JB at all.

[Pride]

Hopefully with the right car and now the "better" engine JB should show his true potential again.
Imho I reckon he could still be the face for the new NSX, Honda is probably discussing that very subject as we speak, watch this space.

[Pride]

[quote=Pride;

Hmmm...[/QUOTE]

Waning??? No way!
Check out last Sunday, most people realise that if JB was given the right car he could well be King again, he has an affinity with the origanol NSX, he speaks Japanese, and on top of all that he's well liked and respected where ever he goes.
I still reckon Honda will have a major say as to whether maclaren get rid of him for next year or not and if he does eventually go I wouldn't be at all surprised if he went to the states and did a Mansell, as he's still got it in him.
Only time will tell.[/QUOTE]

Fantastic news for Britain, maclaren, Honda, F1 and of course JB himself.

[TheSebringOne]

I really hope Mclaren retain JB but I think they will keep youth for long term planning & to off set the cost of Alonso.