1992 Honda NSX Coupe

Description

Japan's first modern supercar, the high-tech Honda NSX was introduced in 1989 to a rapturous reception, before going on sale to the public the following year. The NSX was a real lightweight thanks to the extensive use of aluminium, and still assembled by hand in a land where mass production was the norm. Powering the NSX was a real jewel of an engine, a DOHC 90-degree V6 drawing from Honda's long racing heritage. Mounted transversely, the all-alloy unit could rev safely to 8000 rpm - something achieved with titanium rods - but was docile enough to pull cleanly from 1000 rpm, making the NSX a pleasure to drive around town. Inside, the NSX showcased Honda's renowned ergonomics, albeit with higher grade materials and plenty of technology - for example electric seats and climate control were standard - and combined a supremely comfortable driving position with cleverly thought out controls. The cockpit set new benchmarks for supercars. In 1992 Honda produced a version of the NSX specifically modified for superior track performance. Thus, the NSX Type R (or NSX R) went on a weight reduction program. Sound deadening, audio system, spare tyre, air conditioning system and traction control and some electrical equipment were all removed. In went lightweight Recaro carbon-kevlar racing seats and lighter forged aluminium Enkei wheels, all of which reduced the car's unsprung weight by 120kg to 1230kg. Even the leather shift knob was replaced with a titanium piece! The NSX R's 3.0-litre engine also had a blueprinted and balanced crankshaft assembly, and the suspension received stiffer springs on the front suspension along with stiffer front sway bar, which had the effect of decreasing the oversteer tendency and making it much more stable at high speeds. Production of the NSX R ended in September 1995. In 2005, after 16 years of production, Honda finally pulled the plug on this first-generation NSX, ending a remarkable chapter in the history of Japanese engineering. Values of the NSX have held up remarkably well, partly as so few were sold in Australia, and they are, without doubt, now regarded as a sought-after modern classic.