The Honda NSX is one of the most iconic Japanese supercars ever made. It was first introduced in 1990 and was praised for its advanced engineering, performance, and reliability. The NSX was also notable for being the first mass-produced car to feature an all-aluminum body and chassis.
In this review, we will take a closer look at the JDM Honda NSX and discuss its performance, handling, interior, and overall driving experience.
JDM Honda NSX Overview
The Honda NSX for sale, known in North America as the Acura NSX, is a testament to Honda's engineering prowess and ambition in the early 1990s. Developed to challenge the dominance of European supercars, particularly those from Italy, the NSX was a marvel of modern technology and innovation. With its sleek design, mid-engine layout, and extensive use of aluminum, the NSX not only looked the part of a supercar but also delivered in terms of performance and reliability.
Designed with input from the late Formula One champion Ayrton Senna, the JDM NSX was a car that balanced performance with everyday usability. It was equipped with a naturally aspirated V6 engine equipped with Honda's VTEC system, ensuring an exhilarating driving experience. Unlike many of its contemporaries, the NSX combined this performance with Honda's renowned reliability, offering supercar thrills without the associated high maintenance costs.
JDM Honda NSX: A Supercar Icon
Specifications
Manufacturer |
Honda |
Model |
NSX |
Production Years |
1990 - 2005 (first generation) |
Body Type |
Two-door coupe |
Engine |
3.0L V6 C30A (early models) |
Power Output |
270 hp @ 7,100 rpm (JDM spec) |
Torque |
210 lb-ft @ 5,300 rpm |
Transmission |
5-speed manual (early models), later 6-speed manual |
Drivetrain |
Mid-engine, rear-wheel drive |
Construction |
All-aluminum monocoque body and chassis |
Weight |
Approximately 1,350 kg |
0-60 mph Time |
Under 6 seconds |
Top Speed |
Approximately 168 mph (270 km/h) |
Suspension |
Double-wishbone front and rear |
Braking |
Ventilated disc brakes front and rear |
Wheelbase |
2,530 mm |
Interior Features |
Leather seats, air conditioning, power accessories |
Safety Features |
ABS, traction control, dual front airbags |
Design
The first thing you'll notice about the Honda NSX is its design. With input from Formula One legend Ayrton Senna, the JDM NSX boasts a low, sleek, and aerodynamic profile that still turns heads today. But the design isn't just for looks; Honda also focused on functionality. The car's aerodynamics were fine-tuned to ensure optimal airflow, and the all-aluminum body saved weight and added rigidity.
Performance
The heart of the Honda NSX is its mid-mounted, naturally aspirated 3.0L V6 engine, complete with VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control). This engine is mated to a five-speed manual transmission, with later models receiving a six-speed manual. The engine produces 270 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque, propelling the car from 0-60 mph in under six seconds. The VTEC system gives the NSX a rev-happy nature, and it sings all the way up to its redline with a distinctive howl.
Handling
One of the most impressive things about the JDM NSX was its balanced handling. The car's mid-engine layout and double-wishbone suspension at both the front and rear gave it sharp responses and a neutral balance. This made the Honda NSX accessible and forgiving, allowing drivers of all skill levels to explore its capabilities.
Interior
Unlike many supercars of its time, the NSX also offered a comfortable and user-friendly interior. The cabin was finished with high-quality materials and had a driver-centric layout. Honda drew inspiration from fighter jet cockpits to provide excellent forward visibility. The ride was firm but never jarring, making the Honda NSX suitable for daily driving or longer journeys - a rarity in the supercar world.
Reliability
Perhaps one of the NSX's biggest advantages over its European rivals was its reliability. Built with Honda's renowned engineering expertise, the Honda NSX didn't have the quirks and frequent mechanical issues that plagued many high-performance cars of the era. Regular maintenance was also affordable, and the car could be serviced at any Honda dealership, unlike European exotics that required specialized care.
JDM Honda NSX Price
The price of a JDM Honda NSX depends on a few things, including its condition, mileage, and rarity. Old Honda NSX prices have been rising in recent years because the car is a collectible and a Japanese classic sports car.
In the 1990s, you could find early models of the JDM Honda NSX for anywhere between $40,000 and $60,000 for well-maintained examples. Pristine, low-mileage, or special edition models could fetch prices upwards of $80,000 or even higher.
But in today's market, prices for used Honda NSX models may have risen even further, especially for well-maintained, unmodified, or rare examples. It's not uncommon to see prices exceeding $100,000 for models in exceptional condition.
Conclusion
The JDM Honda NSX for sale is a true icon in the automotive world. It was a car that challenged the status quo and proved that supercar performance could be combined with everyday usability and reliability. With its sleek design, mid-engine layout, and naturally aspirated V6 engine, the NSX was a car that was both exhilarating to drive and practical for everyday use.
If you're looking for a supercar that is both unique and desirable, the JDM Honda NSX is the perfect choice. It is a car that is sure to turn heads wherever you go, and it is sure to provide you with years of driving enjoyment.