The first generation NSX was a classic. The second gen is still in development.
The first Acura NSX was Honda’s masterpiece of engineering. It was the first supercar that Honda could compete with the likes of Porsche and Ferrari. Cars Evolution has released a new video that charts the evolution of the model from its first generation to the current version.
Unfortunately, Honda did not bring many special editions to the United States of the NSX. One notable exception was the 1999 Alex Zanardi Edition. This model was created to commemorate Zanardi’s backward championships in the CART series for the Honda-powered Chip Ganassi Racing Team. The first car was given to Zanardi, and 50 units were sold by the automaker to the American public. The standard NSX was modified with manual steering, a lighter lithium battery and Y-spoke BBS tires. These changes reduced the car’s weight by 149 pounds (68 kg).
The NSX R GT is one of the most rare and fascinating NSX’s Cars Evolution highlights. This was an exclusive version for the Japanese market. It was homologated by Honda in order to race in the Japanese GT Championship (JGTC), now called Super GT. The car was limited to five units. It featured a huge air intake that rose above the roof. However, this piece was not functional for the road-going version.
Acura has unveiled a slight update to the second-gen NSX. The most significant mechanical improvements are the dampers, which are now 26 percent stiffer in the front and 19% stiffer at the back. This supposedly cuts two seconds off a lap around Suzuka Circuit. Acura also changes the exterior, changing the color of the front grille garnish and the finish to the grille surround and front air intake mesh. Acura has also added a new Thermal Orange Pearl exterior colour and Indigo Blue leather upholstery.
Rumours suggest that the NSX’s evolution may not be over. According to reports, a hardcore Type R might be coming soon, and Honda may also consider an open roof variant.