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Honda NSX

2008-04-24T20:36:57Z

V6: /* Reliability */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>5-Speed Manual<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| Chief Designer: Ken Okuyama<br>Executive Chief Engineer:Shigeru Uehara
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While [[Honda]] had already christened a purpose built facility to manufacture the NSX at the Kanekanzawa R&D Plant, Tochigi, Japan (1990-2004) and later Suzuka R&D Plant, Suzuka, Japan (2004-2005) they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production synchronicity when they acquired the services of [[Honda]] Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran a testing programme at the [[Suzuka]] International Racing Course (an [[F1]] accredited race circuit actually owned by the Honda Motor Company) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension and its [[mid engine]] layout, Senna's technical input and opinion was invaluable and directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by [[Honda]] the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day [[Supercar]] competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy [[Supercar]] companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced [[monocoque]] chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later [[McClaren]] who poached [[Honda]] power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of [[F1]] during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful [[F1]] racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable [[traction control]] and a [[limited slip differential]] ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's [[mid engine]] placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by [[Gordon Murray]], [[McLaren]] [[F1]] Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 [[Supercar]] concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Suzuka

2008-04-24T20:31:44Z

V6: Additional Link Page

Designed as a [[Honda]] test track in 1962 by John Hugenholtz, Suzuka Racing Circuit is still used today as a working [[F1]] test track for Honda R&D development.

==See also==

* [[Honda NSX]], Japanese Supercar influenced by F1 produced by Honda between 1991 and 2005.
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

Suzuka International Racing Course

2008-04-24T20:30:34Z

V6: Additional Link Page

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T20:25:12Z

V6: /* Criticisms */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>5-Speed Manual<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| Chief Designer: Ken Okuyama<br>Executive Chief Engineer:Shigeru Uehara
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While Honda had already christened a purpose built facility to manufacture the NSX at the Kanekanzawa R&D Plant, Tochigi, Japan (1990-2004) and later Suzuka R&D Plant, Suzuka, Japan (2004-2005) they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production synchronicity when they acquired the services of Honda Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran a testing programme at the Suzuka International Racing Course (an F1 accredited race circuit actually owned by the Honda Motor Company) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension, Senna's technical input and opinion was directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by [[Honda]] the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day [[Supercar]] competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy [[Supercar]] companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced [[monocoque]] chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later [[McClaren]] who poached [[Honda]] power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of [[F1]] during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful [[F1]] racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable [[traction control]] and a [[limited slip differential]] ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's [[mid engine]] placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by [[Gordon Murray]], [[McLaren]] [[F1]] Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 [[Supercar]] concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Mid engine

2008-04-24T20:24:38Z

V6: Link Page

The term mid-engine layout usually refers to the placement of an automobiles engine midway between its rear and front axles, as opposed to placement in the front engine compartment of a typical family saloon car, and is most commonly associated with high performance motoring and [[Supercars]].

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T20:16:36Z

V6: /* Unique Attributes */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>5-Speed Manual<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| Chief Designer: Ken Okuyama<br>Executive Chief Engineer:Shigeru Uehara
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While Honda had already christened a purpose built facility to manufacture the NSX at the Kanekanzawa R&D Plant, Tochigi, Japan (1990-2004) and later Suzuka R&D Plant, Suzuka, Japan (2004-2005) they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production synchronicity when they acquired the services of Honda Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran a testing programme at the Suzuka International Racing Course (an F1 accredited race circuit actually owned by the Honda Motor Company) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension, Senna's technical input and opinion was directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by [[Honda]] the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day [[Supercar]] competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy [[Supercar]] companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced [[monocoque]] chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later [[McClaren]] who poached [[Honda]] power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of [[F1]] during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful [[F1]] racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable [[traction control]] and a [[limited slip differential]] ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T20:10:25Z

V6: /* Main Competitors */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>5-Speed Manual<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| Chief Designer: Ken Okuyama<br>Executive Chief Engineer:Shigeru Uehara
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While Honda had already christened a purpose built facility to manufacture the NSX at the Kanekanzawa R&D Plant, Tochigi, Japan (1990-2004) and later Suzuka R&D Plant, Suzuka, Japan (2004-2005) they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production synchronicity when they acquired the services of Honda Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran a testing programme at the Suzuka International Racing Course (an F1 accredited race circuit actually owned by the Honda Motor Company) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension, Senna's technical input and opinion was directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by [[Honda]] the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day [[Supercar]] competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy [[Supercar]] companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced monocoque chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later McClaren who poached Honda power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of F1 during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful F1 racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable traction control and a limited slip differential ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T20:08:00Z

V6: Links

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>5-Speed Manual<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| Chief Designer: Ken Okuyama<br>Executive Chief Engineer:Shigeru Uehara
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While Honda had already christened a purpose built facility to manufacture the NSX at the Kanekanzawa R&D Plant, Tochigi, Japan (1990-2004) and later Suzuka R&D Plant, Suzuka, Japan (2004-2005) they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production synchronicity when they acquired the services of Honda Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran a testing programme at the Suzuka International Racing Course (an F1 accredited race circuit actually owned by the Honda Motor Company) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension, Senna's technical input and opinion was directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by Honda the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day supercar competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy Supercar companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced monocoque chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later McClaren who poached Honda power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of F1 during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful F1 racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable traction control and a limited slip differential ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Honda Racing

2008-04-24T20:05:17Z

V6: Honda Racing associated links

'''Honda Racing''' could refer to:

* [[Acura NSX]], Japanese Supercar produced by Honda between 1991 and 2005.
* [[Honda NSX]], Japanese Supercar influenced by F1 produced by Honda between 1991 and 2005.
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

Honda F1 Racing

2008-04-24T19:55:01Z

V6: /* External links */

[[image:Hondaf1.gif|thumb|right|300px|Honda F1 Logo]]
[[Honda]] Racing F1 Team is a Formula One team run by [[Honda]]. The team is based in Brackley, United Kingdom, and uses the facilities of former British American Racing, which Honda fully acquired in 2005. Engines are built at the [[Honda]] R&D facility in Tochigi, Japan. The [[Honda]] team is led by Nick Fry and currently has drivers Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello. The team began by using the same predominantly white livery that Honda used in the sport during the 1960s, but has since switched to a more environmentally friendly livery. The car entry for the 2006 season was the RA106 with the RA806E V8 Honda Engine, consistent with the nomenclature from its previous two generations of F1 competition.

==History==
===Early success===
Honda surprised everyone by entering Formula One Grand Prix racing in 1963, just three years after producing their first road car. They began development of the Honda RA271 in 1962 and startled the European-dominated Formula One garages with their all-Japanese factory team. More startling was the fact that Honda built their own engine and chassis, something only Scuderia Ferrari and British Racing Motors (BRM) had previously done. In only their second year of competition, Honda reached the coveted top step of the podium with Ginther's win in the Honda RA272 at the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix. For the new 3.0L rules from 1966, Honda introduced the Honda RA273. Although the RA273's engine was a well-designed, 360bhp [[V12]], the car was let down by a relatively heavy and unwieldy in-house chassis. Honda returned to the winner's circle in 1967 with the new Honda RA300, driven by John Surtees. This won the 1967 Italian Grand Prix in only its first F1 race. The RA300 chassis was partly designed by Lola in the UK, and this resulted in the car being nicknamed the ''Hondola'' by the motoring press. Unfortunately this was the last truly competitive car that Honda produced for F1 in the 1960s; the following year's Honda RA301 only reached the podium twice and Honda withdrew from F1 at the end of the 1969 Formula One season. Honda backed up their Grand Prix victories by dominating the 1966 Formula 2 season, winning every race that year with Jack Brabham's team. Honda competed as a constructor in 47 Grands Prix in the 1960s.

===Honda as an engine supplier, 1983-1992===
Honda returned to Formula One in 1983 Formula One season as an engine supplier for the Spirit (racing team) and stayed in the sport for a decade, at various times teaming with Team Lotus, Team McLaren, Tyrrell Racing and WilliamsF1. Honda engines were considered the ticket to Grand Prix glory due to their power, reliability, and winning track record. Honda supplied its engines to six constructor championships, as well as five driver championships (3 by Ayrton Senna, 1 by Nelson Piquet, and another by Alain Prost, before dropping out of the sport again. Honda-powered cars had won 71 Grands Prix, by the end of the 1992 season.

===Aborted F1 project, 1999===
From 1993 to 1998, Honda's only presence in F1 was as an engine supplier through its associates [[Mugen]], who supplied engines to teams such as Ligier, Prost Racing Jordan. [[Mugen]]-powered cars had won 4 Grands Prix by the end of the 1999 season. In 1998, Honda was seriously considering entry in Formula One as a constructor, going as far as producing an engine and hiring Harvey Postlethwaite as technical director and designer. A test car, RA099, designed by Postlethwaite and built by Dallara, was made and tested during 1999, driven by Jos Verstappen. At a test of this car, Postlethwaite suffered a fatal heart attack, the project was later shelved and Honda decided to merely recommit as a full works engine supplier to BAR, starting in 2000.

===Partnership with British American Racing===
Honda returned yet again in the 2000 Formula One season, providing engines for British American Racing (BAR). They also supplied engines to Jordan Racing for the 2001 Formula One season and the 2002 Formula One season. This would lead to a battle for the right to use the Honda engines in the long term. In the 2003 Formula One season, despite their better showing in the previous 2 seasons, Honda dropped Jordan Motorsports. In mid-November 2004 Honda purchased 45% of the BAR team.

===Return===
In September 2005 Honda purchased the remaining 55% share of BAR to become the sole owner. BAT continued as title sponsor with the Lucky Strike brand in 2006, but have withdrawn from Formula 1 for 2007. It has been decided that team would race under the name Honda Racing F1 Team in 2006.

Despite showing promise pre-season (with the RA806 being considered one of the most powerful of the new [[V8]] engines), Honda demonstrated fairly mediocre performance at the start of the 2006 season despite a pole position at the 2006 Australian Grand Prix. Prior to their win at the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix, they had only accumulated a single podium finish, a third place from Jenson Button at the 2006 Malaysian Grand Prix. The main reason for lack of form (the team was expecting to challenge for the championship) has been down to reliability, with the team dropping out of contention for race victories many times. Pit-stop problems also hampered the team early on, in one case effectively ruining Jenson Button's chances for a good result and possible podium at the 2006 San Marino Grand Prix. Rubens Barrichello has not had a good season for the team, down to the fact that he has had to get used to the new [[brakes]] and [[traction control]], after moving from a very successful six year stint at Ferrari. Nevertheless Rubens had out-qualified his team-mate in the final four races.

Honda had a particularly poor showing at the British Grand Prix in 2006. In particular, Jenson Button was eliminated after the first portion of qualifying after the team failed to get him out for a second run. This resulted in his qualifying 19th. He then retired with an oil leak. In light of this poor form, it was announced that Geoff Willis would be adopting a factory-based role to concentrate on aerodynamics. Following the appointment of Senior Technical Director Shuhei Nakamoto over Willis' head and Mariano Alperin-Bruvera as Chief Aerodynamicist Willis' position appears difficult, and reports indicate that he has left the team.
At the Hungaroring fortunes changed. Barrichello and Button qualified third and fourth, though Button had to drop ten places, following an engine change. In an incident-packed race, Jenson came from fourteenth on the grid to win his first race, with Barrichello finishing fourth. After this win, the team's performance went up noticeably, displaying consistency (if not overall performance) arguably better than championship leaders Ferrari and Renault. Button scored as many points as championship runner up Michael Schumacher in the last third of the season. Both drivers earned points finishes in almost all the remaining races (with the exception of Barrichello's 12th place finish in Japan), with the season ending high note with Button's 3rd place finish in the the 2006 Brazilian Grand Prix-less than a second behind 2nd place Fernando Alonso - after having to start from 14th on the grid.

On November 15, 2006, it was announced that long time BAR Honda and Honda test driver, Anthony Davidson is heading to Super Aguri F1 to race alongside Takuma Sato. He will be replaced by ex-Red Bull racer Christian Klien for the 2007 season and possibly beyond.

===2007 and post BAT sponsorship===
With tobacco sponsorship in F1 now in full decline, 2007 also sees the end of British American Tobacco's sponsorship of Honda, allowing the team to choose a livery that reflects their corporate image. Unveiled on February 26, the RA107 car features minimal corporate advertising, instead focusing on Honda's environmental desires, with a livery depicting the planet Earth against the black background of space. On the rear wing is the web address of environmental awareness website [http://www.myearthdream.com/ myearthdream.com].

This site was launched February 27, 2007, immediately after the official launch of the 2007 car.

Reactions to the new Honda livery have been mixed, with Friends of the Earth accusing the team of being hypocritical, given how polluting F1 is, but there are hopes this new dynamic look will also show on track with some fans of Honda saying this is their best year yet for a championship.

The team's form in pre-season testing was patchy, and Jenson Button urged the squad to improve. The RA-107's sheer lack of pace was evident at the season-opening the 2007 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 18th, with Button and Rubens Barrichello qualifying 14th and 17th respectively (well behind the 'customer' Super Aguri F1] team, whose car is effectively an update of last year's Honda, the RA-106). Barrichello finished the race in 11th place, with Button in 15th after receiving a drive-through penalty for speeding in the pit lane.

==Results==
===Grand Prix wins===
*1965 Mexican Grand Prix
*1967 Italian Grand Prix
*2006 Hungarian Grand Prix

===Pole Positions===
*1968 Italian Grand Prix
*2006 Australian Grand Prix

== WikiLinks ==
{{commonscat|Honda}}

* [[Honda NSX]], Japanese Supercar influenced by F1 produced by Honda between 1991 and 2005.
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

Honda F1 Racing

2008-04-24T19:52:31Z

V6: Additional Links

[[image:Hondaf1.gif|thumb|right|300px|Honda F1 Logo]]
[[Honda]] Racing F1 Team is a Formula One team run by [[Honda]]. The team is based in Brackley, United Kingdom, and uses the facilities of former British American Racing, which Honda fully acquired in 2005. Engines are built at the [[Honda]] R&D facility in Tochigi, Japan. The [[Honda]] team is led by Nick Fry and currently has drivers Jenson Button and Rubens Barrichello. The team began by using the same predominantly white livery that Honda used in the sport during the 1960s, but has since switched to a more environmentally friendly livery. The car entry for the 2006 season was the RA106 with the RA806E V8 Honda Engine, consistent with the nomenclature from its previous two generations of F1 competition.

==History==
===Early success===
Honda surprised everyone by entering Formula One Grand Prix racing in 1963, just three years after producing their first road car. They began development of the Honda RA271 in 1962 and startled the European-dominated Formula One garages with their all-Japanese factory team. More startling was the fact that Honda built their own engine and chassis, something only Scuderia Ferrari and British Racing Motors (BRM) had previously done. In only their second year of competition, Honda reached the coveted top step of the podium with Ginther's win in the Honda RA272 at the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix. For the new 3.0L rules from 1966, Honda introduced the Honda RA273. Although the RA273's engine was a well-designed, 360bhp [[V12]], the car was let down by a relatively heavy and unwieldy in-house chassis. Honda returned to the winner's circle in 1967 with the new Honda RA300, driven by John Surtees. This won the 1967 Italian Grand Prix in only its first F1 race. The RA300 chassis was partly designed by Lola in the UK, and this resulted in the car being nicknamed the ''Hondola'' by the motoring press. Unfortunately this was the last truly competitive car that Honda produced for F1 in the 1960s; the following year's Honda RA301 only reached the podium twice and Honda withdrew from F1 at the end of the 1969 Formula One season. Honda backed up their Grand Prix victories by dominating the 1966 Formula 2 season, winning every race that year with Jack Brabham's team. Honda competed as a constructor in 47 Grands Prix in the 1960s.

===Honda as an engine supplier, 1983-1992===
Honda returned to Formula One in 1983 Formula One season as an engine supplier for the Spirit (racing team) and stayed in the sport for a decade, at various times teaming with Team Lotus, Team McLaren, Tyrrell Racing and WilliamsF1. Honda engines were considered the ticket to Grand Prix glory due to their power, reliability, and winning track record. Honda supplied its engines to six constructor championships, as well as five driver championships (3 by Ayrton Senna, 1 by Nelson Piquet, and another by Alain Prost, before dropping out of the sport again. Honda-powered cars had won 71 Grands Prix, by the end of the 1992 season.

===Aborted F1 project, 1999===
From 1993 to 1998, Honda's only presence in F1 was as an engine supplier through its associates [[Mugen]], who supplied engines to teams such as Ligier, Prost Racing Jordan. [[Mugen]]-powered cars had won 4 Grands Prix by the end of the 1999 season. In 1998, Honda was seriously considering entry in Formula One as a constructor, going as far as producing an engine and hiring Harvey Postlethwaite as technical director and designer. A test car, RA099, designed by Postlethwaite and built by Dallara, was made and tested during 1999, driven by Jos Verstappen. At a test of this car, Postlethwaite suffered a fatal heart attack, the project was later shelved and Honda decided to merely recommit as a full works engine supplier to BAR, starting in 2000.

===Partnership with British American Racing===
Honda returned yet again in the 2000 Formula One season, providing engines for British American Racing (BAR). They also supplied engines to Jordan Racing for the 2001 Formula One season and the 2002 Formula One season. This would lead to a battle for the right to use the Honda engines in the long term. In the 2003 Formula One season, despite their better showing in the previous 2 seasons, Honda dropped Jordan Motorsports. In mid-November 2004 Honda purchased 45% of the BAR team.

===Return===
In September 2005 Honda purchased the remaining 55% share of BAR to become the sole owner. BAT continued as title sponsor with the Lucky Strike brand in 2006, but have withdrawn from Formula 1 for 2007. It has been decided that team would race under the name Honda Racing F1 Team in 2006.

Despite showing promise pre-season (with the RA806 being considered one of the most powerful of the new [[V8]] engines), Honda demonstrated fairly mediocre performance at the start of the 2006 season despite a pole position at the 2006 Australian Grand Prix. Prior to their win at the 2006 Hungarian Grand Prix, they had only accumulated a single podium finish, a third place from Jenson Button at the 2006 Malaysian Grand Prix. The main reason for lack of form (the team was expecting to challenge for the championship) has been down to reliability, with the team dropping out of contention for race victories many times. Pit-stop problems also hampered the team early on, in one case effectively ruining Jenson Button's chances for a good result and possible podium at the 2006 San Marino Grand Prix. Rubens Barrichello has not had a good season for the team, down to the fact that he has had to get used to the new [[brakes]] and [[traction control]], after moving from a very successful six year stint at Ferrari. Nevertheless Rubens had out-qualified his team-mate in the final four races.

Honda had a particularly poor showing at the British Grand Prix in 2006. In particular, Jenson Button was eliminated after the first portion of qualifying after the team failed to get him out for a second run. This resulted in his qualifying 19th. He then retired with an oil leak. In light of this poor form, it was announced that Geoff Willis would be adopting a factory-based role to concentrate on aerodynamics. Following the appointment of Senior Technical Director Shuhei Nakamoto over Willis' head and Mariano Alperin-Bruvera as Chief Aerodynamicist Willis' position appears difficult, and reports indicate that he has left the team.
At the Hungaroring fortunes changed. Barrichello and Button qualified third and fourth, though Button had to drop ten places, following an engine change. In an incident-packed race, Jenson came from fourteenth on the grid to win his first race, with Barrichello finishing fourth. After this win, the team's performance went up noticeably, displaying consistency (if not overall performance) arguably better than championship leaders Ferrari and Renault. Button scored as many points as championship runner up Michael Schumacher in the last third of the season. Both drivers earned points finishes in almost all the remaining races (with the exception of Barrichello's 12th place finish in Japan), with the season ending high note with Button's 3rd place finish in the the 2006 Brazilian Grand Prix-less than a second behind 2nd place Fernando Alonso - after having to start from 14th on the grid.

On November 15, 2006, it was announced that long time BAR Honda and Honda test driver, Anthony Davidson is heading to Super Aguri F1 to race alongside Takuma Sato. He will be replaced by ex-Red Bull racer Christian Klien for the 2007 season and possibly beyond.

===2007 and post BAT sponsorship===
With tobacco sponsorship in F1 now in full decline, 2007 also sees the end of British American Tobacco's sponsorship of Honda, allowing the team to choose a livery that reflects their corporate image. Unveiled on February 26, the RA107 car features minimal corporate advertising, instead focusing on Honda's environmental desires, with a livery depicting the planet Earth against the black background of space. On the rear wing is the web address of environmental awareness website [http://www.myearthdream.com/ myearthdream.com].

This site was launched February 27, 2007, immediately after the official launch of the 2007 car.

Reactions to the new Honda livery have been mixed, with Friends of the Earth accusing the team of being hypocritical, given how polluting F1 is, but there are hopes this new dynamic look will also show on track with some fans of Honda saying this is their best year yet for a championship.

The team's form in pre-season testing was patchy, and Jenson Button urged the squad to improve. The RA-107's sheer lack of pace was evident at the season-opening the 2007 Australian Grand Prix in Melbourne on March 18th, with Button and Rubens Barrichello qualifying 14th and 17th respectively (well behind the 'customer' Super Aguri F1] team, whose car is effectively an update of last year's Honda, the RA-106). Barrichello finished the race in 11th place, with Button in 15th after receiving a drive-through penalty for speeding in the pit lane.

==Results==
===Grand Prix wins===
*1965 Mexican Grand Prix
*1967 Italian Grand Prix
*2006 Hungarian Grand Prix

===Pole Positions===
*1968 Italian Grand Prix
*2006 Australian Grand Prix

== External links ==
{{commonscat|Honda}}

* [[Honda NSX]], Japanese Supercar influenced by F1 produced by Honda between 1991 and 2005.
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

Honda F1

2008-04-24T19:48:06Z

V6: Additional Links

'''Honda F1''' could refer to:

* [[Honda NSX]], Japanese Supercar influenced by F1 produced by Honda between 1991 and 2005.
* [[Honda F1 Racing]], Japanese Motor Manufacturer participating in F1 Motorsport.
* [[Mugen]], Japanese Engine Tuner & Manufacturer associated with the Honda Motor Company.
* [[Honda]], the Honda Motor Company.

NSX

2008-04-24T19:42:04Z

V6: Link Page

'''NSX''' could refer to:

* [[Acura NSX]], Japanese Supercar produced by Honda between 1991 and 2005.

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T19:09:44Z

V6: Minor technical additions

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>5-Speed Manual<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| Chief Designer: Ken Okuyama<br>Executive Chief Engineer:Shigeru Uehara
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While Honda had already christened a purpose built facility to manufacture the NSX at the Kanekanzawa R&D Plant, Tochigi, Japan (1990-2004) and later Suzuka R&D Plant, Suzuka, Japan (2004-2005) they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production synchronicity when they acquired the services of Honda Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran a testing programme at the Suzuka International Racing Course (an F1 accredited race circuit actually owned by the Honda Motor Company) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension, Senna's technical input and opinion was directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by Honda the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day supercar competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy Supercar companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced monocoque chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later McClaren who poached Honda power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of F1 during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful F1 racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable traction control and a limited slip differential ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T19:06:03Z

V6: Layout Correction

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>5-Speed Manual<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| Chief Designer: Ken Okuyama<br>Executive Chief Engineer:Shigeru Uehara
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While Honda had already christened a purpose built facility in Japan to manufacture the NSX, they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production harmony when they acquired the services of Honda Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran testing at the Suzuka International Racing Course (an F1 accredited race circuit actually owned by Honda) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension, Senna's input was directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by Honda the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day supercar competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy Supercar companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced monocoque chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later McClaren who poached Honda power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of F1 during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful F1 racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable traction control and a limited slip differential ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T19:01:32Z

V6: Technical additions

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>5-Speed Manual<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| Chief Designer: Ken Okuyama<br>Executive Chief Engineer:Shigeru Uehara

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While Honda had already christened a purpose built facility in Japan to manufacture the NSX, they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production harmony when they acquired the services of Honda Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran testing at the Suzuka International Racing Course (an F1 accredited race circuit actually owned by Honda) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension, Senna's input was directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by Honda the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day supercar competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy Supercar companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced monocoque chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later McClaren who poached Honda power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of F1 during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful F1 racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable traction control and a limited slip differential ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T18:36:12Z

V6: Refinements to detail from a long term NSX owner

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 at a time when the Japanese constructor was dominating the world of Formula 1 motor racing. The first NSX was sold to George Lucas but possibly the most influential automotive "apostle" of Honda engineering was Gordon Murray, later to design the world famous McLaren F1 Supercar. The NSX was conceived as a two seater coupe. The all aluminium NSX body never suffered any radical changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various minor cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps. The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The advanced all alumium suspension was revised further still and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now made available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The first generation NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year to make way for another Honda Sports Concept car. The original design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made a permanent impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1 motor racing.

The NSX is now in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

While Honda had already christened a purpose built facility in Japan to manufacture the NSX, they went even further to ensure the car, its chassis and engine development were all in perfect pre production harmony when they acquired the services of Honda Formula 1 driver Ayrton Senna who ran testing at the Suzuka International Racing Course (an F1 accredited race circuit actually owned by Honda) to fine tune the chassis of the NSX. Along with the advanced all aluminium suspension, Senna's input was directly attributed as being responsible for the race car standard handling of the NSX.

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced by Honda the international motoring press saw it as a valid modern day supercar competing directly against major European Supercars cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. The effect of the Asiatic automotive tsunami caused many of those traditional sleepy Supercar companies to change their designs and engines and some say even their philosophy.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced monocoque chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later McClaren who poached Honda power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of F1 during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful F1 racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable traction control and a limited slip differential ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T18:12:44Z

V6: /* Unique Attributes */

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 the first NSX was sold to George Lucas. The NSX was a two seater coupe. The NSX body never had any major changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year. The design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made an impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1.

It's rumored to be in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced it competed againts lots of major cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. This caused many of those companies to change their designs and engines around those times.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast not only an all aluminium body, but also an all aluminium engine block powering a race track influenced monocoque chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with Williams Grand Prix Engineering, and later McClaren who poached Honda power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of F1 during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful F1 racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable traction control and a limited slip differential ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]

Honda NSX

2008-04-24T18:08:37Z

V6: Refinements to detail from a long term NSX owner

{| border=0 cellspacing=0 cellpadding=4 style="float:right; margin:0 0 .5em 1em; width:250px; background:#fff; border-collapse:collapse; border:1px solid #999; font-size:83%; line-height:1.5; " summary="Infobox Automobile"
|- style="text-align:center; background:#f0f0f0;"
| colspan=2 style="padding:0; background:#996; color:#fff; border-bottom:1px solid #999;" | [[Image:Acura nssx.jpg|300px]]
|- style="color:#fff; background:#996; font-size:larger;"
! colspan=2 | '''{{PAGENAME}}'''
|-
! colspan=2 style="text-align:center; font-weight:normal; background:#ddb;" | [[Acura]]
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| aka
| Honda NSX
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Production
| 1991-2005
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Class
| Sport/Luxury sport
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Body Style
| Two Seater/ Coupe
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Length
| 174.2 in (4425 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Width
| 71.3 in (1810 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;
| Height
| 46.1 in (1170 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Wheelbase
| 99.60 in (2530 mm)
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Weight
| 2711.7 lb (1230 kg)
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Transmission
| 4-Speed Automatic Overdrive<br>6-Speed Manual Overdrive
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Engine
| 3.0 L C30A V6<br>3.2 L C32B V6
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Power
| 290 hp @ N/A rpm<br>224 lb-ft of [[torque]] @ N/A rpm
|- style="vertical-align:top;"
| Similar
| [[Ferrari 348]]<br>[[Chevrolet Corvette]]
|- style="vertical-align:top; background:#f0f0f0;"
| Designer
| {{{Designer (lead designer if it was a team effort)}}}
|}

The '''Acura / Honda NSX''' was introduced in 1990 and began production in 1991 the first NSX was sold to George Lucas. The NSX was a two seater coupe. The NSX body never had any major changes the biggest changes were made in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as xenon HID headlamps The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations."NSX" is an acronym for "'''N'''ew '''S'''portscar e'''X'''perimental" when it was presented (as ''NS-X'') at the [[Chicago Auto Show]] in February 1989 and at the [[Tokyo Motor Show]] in October 1989. Internal [[Honda]] sources say the ''X'' initially stood for ''unknown'' in the codename of the car while it was in development.

See Wikicars' comprehensive '''[[{{FULLPAGENAMEE}} Review]]'''.

===Recent Changes===

The NSX was discontinued after the 2005 model year. The design was so far ahead of its time in the premium performance segment, that it's style made an impact with only one generation. Competing with [[Chevrolet Corvette|Corvettes]], [[Ferrari]]s and [[Lamborghini]], the two seater was powered by Honda's famous V-6 powerplant directly derived from the Japanese companies successes in Formula 1.

It's rumored to be in development again, and enthusiasts might wonder what will power the 2nd generation. Leaks from Honda and rumour in the motor trade suggests a completely revised front engined V1O powerplant but concensus is less common on the even more heavily revised, some say "over-designed" body styling.

===Styles and Major Options===

First generation NSX owners were quietly satisfied to drive a chassis tuned for Honda by world renound F1 World Champion Ayrton Senna. They were even more happy with the House of Pininfarina who championed a body design many thought gave Ferrari more than a run for its money. Other NSX owners were happy to drive an expensive Japanese supercar whose design did not catergorise them alongside Premier League Footballers.

===Pricing===
Today's actual prices for the [[MAKE]] MODEL can be found at [http://www.carsdirect.com/MAKE/MODEL/prices CarsDirect].

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''MODEL Trims'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''MSRP''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#66ccff>
<td colspan=4>
''Invoice''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$Price1
</td>
<td>
$Price2
</td>
<td>
$Price3
</td>
<td>
$Price4
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Gas Mileage===
As seen on the [http://www.fueleconomy.gov/feg/findacar.htm FuelEconomy.gov] website, the City/Highway MPG averages are as follows:

<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
<td>
c/h
</td>
</tr>
</table>

===Reliability===

===Safety===

===Photos===

===Colors===

===Main Competitors===
When the NSX was introduced it competed againts lots of major cars like [[Porsche]], [[Lamborghini]] and [[Ferrari]]. This caused many of those companies to change their designs and engines around those times.

==Unique Attributes==

The NSX was the worlds first production road car to boast an all aluminium body and race track influenced monocoque chassis. While Honda were actively writing motoring history with some of the most significant wins in Formula 1 with William Grand Prix Engineering, and later McClaren who poached Honda power after the Japanese engine maker broke Ron Dennis and TAG Posche's domination of F1 during the 1986 and 1987 championship seasons.

Many unique features usually seen only on powerful F1 racing cars of the day where engineered into the NSX blueprint to place it a the forefront of Japanese automotive engineering. Switchable traction control and a limited slip differential ensured drive was delivered to the rear wheels of the NSX, harnassing the powerful engine output to maintain traction and minimise wheel spin in any road conditions and with consideration to correcting extreme or erroneous driver input.

==Resale Values==
<table border=1 tablecolor=#000000 bordercolor=#000008>
<tr bgcolor=#cccccc>
<td colspan=4>
'''Trim'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
Trim1
</td>
<td>
Trim2
</td>
<td>
Trim3
</td>
<td>
Trim4
</td>
</tr>
<tr>
<td colspan=4 bgcolor=#cccccc>
'''MPG'''
</td>
</tr>
<tr bgcolor=#ffffcc>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
<td>
$
</td>
</tr>
</table>

==Criticisms==

Technical problems are few and long term owner/driver reports read very favourably for an expensive and technical supercar which has held is price well. One of the most strange, but common faults, reported by NSX owners worldwide was the collection of water from condensation in the rear brake light clusters caused by the high temperature of the Honda's mid engine placement in the chassis. It was not unusual for owners to have to drill small holes in the light clusters to drain away several centimetres of water. Aside from that the Honda was a remarkably sound design package and was famously reported by Gordon Murray, McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept.

==Previous Generations==

==Manufacture and release==
Upon its release in 1990, the NSX was a design ahead of its time. The car was intended to showcase Honda's racing technology, exemplified by the NSX's ultra-rigid, ultra-light [[aluminium]] [[monocoque]] chassis, titanium connecting rods and high-revving capabilities. The car's high chassis rigidity and cornering/handling prowess were the results of [[Ayrton Senna]]'s direct input with NSX's chief engineers while testing at [[Suzuka Circuit]] during its final development stages. The NSX was initially assembled at the purpose-built Takanezawa R&D Plant in [[Tochigi, Tochigi|Tochigi]] from 1989-early 2004, which then moved to Suzuka Plant for the remainder of its production life, by approx. 200 hand-picked staff from various Honda factories. In addition to their renowned skills, each of them must have at least ten years of experience in car assembly and were interviewed extensively for their degree of passion and devotion to the project before they were finally chosen.

''[[Wheels magazine]]'' Australia awarded the Honda NSX the ''1991 [[Car of the Year]]'' award.

Despite the NSX's current age, it still has a strong base of fans and supporters. Honda and majority of car enthusiasts describe the NSX as a [[supercar]] based on its styling, [[car body style|body type]], drivetrain layout, packaging, and most especially in the area of [[car handling]]. Few others have disagreed, claiming the NSX does not qualify for exotic car/supercar status because it's not of European origin and is not powerful enough compared to today's newer offerings, although its 270 rated horsepower at debut in 1990 was only 30 horses shy of the 300 lbs. heavier [[Ferrari 348]], NSX's direct rival. Because of its lighter weight, the NSX was slightly faster than the 348 in straight-line acceleration. Still, for a time, it sported the highest per-litre specific output of any road-going naturally aspirated V6 in the world and is exceptionally fast for the motor's relatively low power output versus comparable "supercars". Post-1997 3.2 liter North American Acura examples are commonly known to achieve a 13.3 second quarter-mile time (1997-2005 model year NSX-T; The 149 lbs. lighter Zanardi Edition NSX is closer to 13 sec. flat), while the Japanese NSX-R (2002+) is known to perform 12.8 second quarter-mile time. The surprising performance is due mostly to a high 8,000 rpm redline, flat power curve, short gears, and mid-engine layout.

On [[July 20]], [[2005]], mere days after the announcement of the closure of current NSX production, Honda CEO [[Takeo Fukui]] announced that a new NSX was under development and would sport a Formula 1-inspired V10 motor, with speculation that it might have the SH-AWD (Super Handling All Wheel Drive) system from the [[Acura RL]]. In addition, he stated it would be ready within three to four years.

==Refinements and versions==
Honda shocked the exotic car world when it introduced its NSX in 1990. Honda designers started with the basic exotic-car wedge (championed by the [[Ferrari Testarossa]] and [[Ferrari 308 GTB|308]]), that would remain basically unchanged for its entire life. To back up the styling, the mechanical specifications were right out of a race car. The NSX featured a super-light all-[[aluminum]] [[chassis]], body, and [[Suspension (vehicle)|suspension]], a first for a production car. Total weight of the entire bare aluminum monocoque was only 200kg. The suspension was a [[double wishbone suspension]], mounted at both ends on aluminum subframes. The standard race-inspired [[V6 engine]] was mounted midship and featured Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control ([[VTEC]]), six individual coils, and titanium [[connecting rod]]s. This was the first application of VTEC in a vehicle offered outside of Japan.

===First Generation NSX-R (JDM)===

Beginning in 1992 Honda produced a limited number of around 500 '''NSX-R'''s exclusively for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Major changes include a blueprinted engine producing 280 BHP in stock form, a short ratio gearbox, more aggressive suspension and an extensive weight reduction to 1230 kg from the normal NSX weight of 1350 kg. The NSX-R was very track oriented as it lacked sound deadening, audio, electric windows, and air conditioning in an effort to reduce weight. Yet these items were available for a hefty premium as optional items. Production ended in 1995.

===NSX-T===

In 1995 the '''NSX-T''' with a [[targa top]] roof was released in Japan as a special order option. In North America of that same year the NSX-T replaced the standard coupe entirely as the only trim available since, with notable exceptions of Zanardi Edition NSX in 1999 and a handful of special dealer-ordered post-1997/pre-2002 3.2 liter coupes. The removable roof hurt the chassis rigidity of the NSX and added about 100 pounds of structural reinforcements. In addition to this major change, the suspensions have also been softened noticeably to improve ride and comfort. All roofs were now body colored instead of black although in Japan the 2 color tone black roof + body color is still available in Japan as optional feature. Finally available on the manual transmission version NSX was the electric power steering previously only available in the automatic version.

===1997 Performance-Enhancing Changes (Worldwide)===

1997 brought the biggest changes to the performance of the current generation NSX for the Japanese domestic versions and abroad. For 1997 engine displacement increased from 3.0 L to 3.2 L. This new 3.2 L ''[[Honda C engine#C32B|C32B]]'' engine gave it slightly more rated power. This improved horsepower from 270 hp to 290 hp while torque increased from 210 to 224 ft·lbf (manual transmission only). Another big change was the change from a 5-speed transmission to the current 6-speed manual. The combination of slightly-increased horsepower and torque, 6-speed manual, and optimized gear ratio produced considerable improvements on the dragstrip. The new NSX rang up better numbers than the horsepower and torque improvements may suggest over previous model NSXs. 0-60mph time dropped from 5.4 seconds to as low as 4.5 seconds for the NSX-S Zero. Other notable changes include a brake rotor size increase from 12 inches to 13 inches, a new aluminum alloy to reduce weight and increase rigidity, and a transponder in the key.

===NSX-S, S-Zero (JDM)===

Along with the engine enlargement in 1997, Japan exclusively received the '''NSX type S''' (NSX-S) and '''NSX type S Zero''' (NSX-S-Zero), weighing in at 1320 kg and 1280 kg, respectively, and both with stiffer suspension than the normal NSX.

===Alex Zanardi Edition NSX===

Produced exclusively for the U.S. Domestic Market (USDM), the '''Alex Zanardi Edition NSX''', basically a JDM NSX-S variant, was introduced in 1999 to commemorate [[Alex Zanardi]]'s 2 back-to-back championship wins for Honda/Acura in 1997 and 1998 in the CART Champ Car series. Only 51 examples were ever built, available only in New Formula Red to reflect the color of the Champ Car Zanardi drove for [[Chip Ganassi Racing]]. Number 0 was a press car that appeared in auto shows across the country. The same car was also featured in [[Car and Driver]] for its July 1999 issue. In June 1999 [[Road and Track]]'s supercar handling test, driven by [[Mario Andretti]], along with [[Dodge Viper]] GTS-R, [[Lotus Esprit]], [[Porsche 911]] Carrera 4, [[Ferrari F355]] Spyder, and [[Chevrolet Corvette]] C5 Coupe, Zanardi number zero almost walked away a victor - it lost 1st place to 911C4 by merely 1/2 point based on Andretti's personal preference for the Porsche's All-Wheel Drive capability. This NSX was eventually sold to a private individual. Number 1 belongs to Zanardi himself and was NOT given a North American VIN number and registered elsewhere unknown, rumored to have been modified by Honda with hand-activated throttle, braking, and shifting mechanisms to accommodate Zanardi's current physiological state since the Lausitzring crash in 2001. Number 2 through 50 were sold to the U.S. general public - Some dealers across the country with previous high NSX sales will receive one or more, most will receive none. Visible signs that differentiate the Zanardi Edition NSX from pure JDM Type S NSX are the serial-numbered brushed-[[aluminium]] plaque adhered to the rear bulkhead with engraved Acura logo and Zanardi's signature, the black red-stitched leather/suede seats and the airbag-equipped Acura OEM steering wheel, in contrast to the racier Honda-Logo Momo wheel especially commissioned for JDM Type S, S-zero, and R models. Internally, however, is nearly identical to Japanese-Spec NSX Type S (NSX-S).

==="Facelifted" NSX (Worldwide)===

The biggest exterior changes for the NSX came in 2002 when it received a facelift with fixed headlights and various other cosmetic refinements such as [[xenon HID headlamp]]s (see photo from [[Greater Los Angeles Auto Show|LA Autoshow]] 2003). The fixed roof NSX was dropped for the 2002 model year. The suspension was revised and the NSX received larger wheels and tires. In addition, the NSX was now available in a number of exterior colors with either a matching or black interior to provide a number of possible color combinations.

===Second Generation NSX-R (JDM)===
[[Image:Acura NSX-R GT.jpg|right|thumb|200px|Acura NSX-R GT.]]
A second iteration of the [[Honda Type R|type-R]] dubbed '''NSX-R''' was released in 2002, again exclusively in Japan. The NSX-R has a more aggressive rear [[Spoiler (aeronautics)|spoiler]] and hood vent, along with various refinements to reduce weight to 1270 kg. Under the body, panels and air fences in the front, along with a small rear [[Diffuser (automotive)|diffuser]] serve to produce balanced "negative lift", in other words, downforce. The subtle changes along with its renowned handling have kept NSX-R in contention on the track even against considerably higher-powered cars, such as the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale and the [[Porsche 911]] (996) GT3, whose [[Nürburgring|Nordschleife]] lap time it tied, at 7 min. 56 sec.

A more agile, more responsive, and quicker limited edition NSX called the NSX-R GT was later released. This model was limited to a production run of 5 cars, at a cost of [[USD|US$]] 462,400. This NSX was created to help Honda comply with the [[All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship|Super GT]] production-based race car homologation requirements. It's easily identifiable by the non-functional [[snorkel]] attached to the roof of the car (the snorkel is fully functional in the Super GT race cars), lower and widened body, and more aggressive aerodynamic components.

===Second Generation NSX-S (JDM)===

The second iteration NSX-S, sold exclusively in Japan, continues with the face-lifted NSX keeping the weight at 1320 kg.

==In motorsport==
Since the beginning of the NSX's production, the car has been used as a [[safety car]] at the [[Suzuka]] circuit, even for the [[Japanese Grand Prix]] in its early years of production and is still used at the circuit. The car is also used for the same role at [[Twin Ring Motegi]], the other circuit owned by Honda.

===24 Hours of Le Mans===
The NSX made three appearances at the [[24 Hours of Le Mans]], in 1994, 1995 and 1996.

In 1994, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1994 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Cars numbers 46, 47 and 48 were prepared and run by team [[Kremer Racing]] Honda, with Team Kunimitsu assisting and driving the number 47 car. All were in the GT2 class, and all completed the race, but placed 14th, 16th and 18th.

In 1995, three Honda NSXs were entered in the [[1995 24 Hours of Le Mans]]. Honda's factory team brought two turbocharged NSXs which were entered in the GT1 class numbered 46 and 47. Car 46 was Not Classified (failed to complete 70% of the distance of the winner) and car 47 Did Not Finish (retired for clutch & gearbox failure). The third NSX, number 84, was prepared as a naturally aspirated car and run by Team Kunimitsu Honda in the GT2 class. This NSX, driven by [[Keiichi Tsuchiya]], Akira Iida and [[Kunimitsu Takahashi]] placed 8th overall and first in the GT2 class after completing 275 laps.

In 1996, for the [[1996 24 Hours of Le Mans]], only the Team Kunimitsu Honda NSX returned, with the same drivers. It completed 305 laps to finish in the 16th position overall, and third in the GT2 class.

===Super GT===
For use in the [[Super GT]], the NSX is highly modified (as allowed by series technical regulations). The most notable change would be in the position of the engine, which is now mounted longitudinally, instead of transverse. Similar to the setup used in modern [[Lamborghini]]s the gearbox is located in the center tunnel under the cockpit connected to the rear differential by a driveshaft. In the most recent version, the engine is fed via a roof mounted snorkel, similar to the airbox of an [[F1]] car. The engine can either be turbocharged or naturally aspirated, depending on the class and on the rules. The NSX has always been one of the top three cars in the series, alongside the [[Toyota Supra]] and the [[Nissan Skyline GT-R]]. The NSX then took the JGTC GT500 class championshp for the [[Dome (constructor)|Dome]] [[Mugen]] Project in 2000. In 2004, the [[Mugen Motorsports|M-TEC]] NSX took the championship in the GT300 class. It's also notable that while Toyota and Nissan have replaced their cars with the [[Lexus SC430]] and [[Nissan Fairlady Z]] respectively, Honda still runs the NSX in the Super GT.

==Worldwide==

==Design quirks and oddities==

Famously reported by Gordon Murray, chief McLaren F1 Supercar designer, as one of his original inspirations for the McLaren F1 Supercar concept, Murray ran an NSX for seven years and in that time claimed he had never adjusted the climate control setting once. After driving an NSX prototype with Ron Dennis at the Tochigi Research Center test course Murray recalled being moved to thinking "It is remarkable how our vision comes through in this car."

==Awards==

==See also==
{{Acura}}
{{Acura modern timeline}}

==External Links==
*[http://news.windingroad.com/countriesmarkets/japan/japan-report-nsx-cleans-up-in-super-gt/ Japan Report: NSX Cleans Up in Super GT]
Gordon Murray McLaren F1 Supercar Design and the NSX influence[http://docs.google.com/View?docid=dggtsppm_6cgtnscht]