Intro
The Acura NSX (Honda NSX outside North America) revolutionized the supercar landscape when it debuted in 1990. Developed with input from Formula One legend Ayrton Senna, the NSX combined exotic car performance with unprecedented reliability and everyday usability. Its all-aluminum monocoque chassis, mid-engine layout, and VTEC-equipped V6 engine represented Honda’s engineering prowess at its zenith.
Within JDM culture, the NSX holds iconic status as Japan’s first true supercar. It demonstrated that Japanese manufacturers could compete directly with established European exotic brands like Ferrari and Porsche. The NSX’s technological innovations, surgical precision handling, and attainable performance earned it reverence in enthusiast circles worldwide, cementing its position as a cornerstone of Japanese automotive excellence.
This particular build represents a masterful evolution of the NSX platform, balancing period-correct modifications with modern performance enhancements. By preserving the car’s intrinsic character while elevating its capabilities, this build exemplifies the respectful innovation that defines the best of JDM tuning culture. It showcases how thoughtful modification can honor a legend while creating something uniquely personal and extraordinarily capable.
Builder Profile
Takashi Yamamoto, a 42-year-old electrical engineer from Osaka who relocated to California’s Silicon Valley in 2008, approaches NSX modification with methodical precision. After spending fifteen years at Honda’s R&D division working on hybrid powertrains, Yamamoto applies his technical expertise to enhance performance while preserving Soichiro Honda’s original engineering vision.
His philosophy centers on “invisible improvements” – modifications that amplify the NSX’s inherent qualities without compromising its character. His build features custom-coded ECU mapping, hand-fabricated titanium components, and track-focused suspension geometry derived from his weekend experience competing in SCCA Time Trials.
Yamamoto has become a respected figure in the NSX Club of America, frequently hosting technical workshops where he bridges the gap between factory engineering principles and aftermarket potential. His restoration-grade wiring harness replacements have become sought-after by collectors seeking to maintain originality while upgrading reliability.
Why We Love It
There’s something transcendent about piloting the NSX through sweeping corners—the way the all-aluminum chassis communicates every nuance of the tarmac without the harshness lesser sports cars mistake for feedback. This mid-engine masterpiece represents Japanese engineering philosophy at its zenith: the meticulous balance between mechanical precision and driver experience.
What Honda’s skunkworks achieved was revolutionary—a supercar that didn’t demand superhuman skill to extract its potential. The 3.0-liter C30A V6 with titanium connecting rods singing to 8,000 RPM through VTEC’s variable valve timing creates a mechanical symphony that modern forced-induction powerplants simply cannot replicate. The throttle response is telepathic, the pedal weighting perfect.
Its significance extends beyond performance metrics. The NSX arrived as Japan’s definitive statement against European exotics, proving that reliability and daily usability needn’t be sacrificed at the altar of performance. Ayrton Senna‘s development input refined the already exceptional chassis dynamics, infusing Formula 1 DNA into its handling characteristics.
The design remains timeless—low-slung proportions with cab-forward architecture that prioritizes visibility, the hallmark of chief designer Masahito Nakano’s human-centered approach. Those pop-up headlights, thin A-pillars, and the signature black roof create a silhouette instantly recognizable to enthusiasts worldwide.
In today’s homogenized automotive landscape, the original NSX stands as analog perfection—the spiritual embodiment of soichiro Honda’s engineering ethos and the high-water mark of Japan’s golden automotive era.
Mods
Engine & Drivetrain
- Spoon Sports high-compression pistons
- HKS 3.2L stroker kit
- ARC titanium intake system
- Comptech supercharger kit
- GReddy TD05-16G turbo kit
- Trust/GReddy intercooler
- HKS Hi-Power exhaust system
- Science of Speed clutch and flywheel
- Mugen LSD (Limited Slip Differential)
- Toda Racing valve springs and camshafts
Suspension & Brakes
- Tein Super Racing coilovers
- CUSCO adjustable sway bars
- Spoon Sports rigid collars
- Endless brake calipers (6-pot front, 4-pot rear)
- Project Mu HC+ brake pads
- Endless stainless steel brake lines
- Downforce anti-roll bars
- Comptech sport suspension kit
- Nagisa Auto fender braces
- J’s Racing performance shock tower bar
Wheels & Tires
- Volk Racing TE37 forged wheels (18″ front, 19″ rear)
- RAYS Gram Lights 57DR
- Work Meister S1 3-piece wheels
- Advan Racing GT premium wheels
- Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08R tires
- Bridgestone Potenza RE-71R
- Falken Azenis RT615K+
- Project KICS R40 wheel nuts
- Yokohama ADVAN A052 semi-slicks
- SSR Professor SP1 wheels
Exterior / Aero
- Downforce carbon fiber hood
- Seibon carbon fiber rear spoiler
- APR GT300 widebody kit
- FEEL’S front and rear bumpers
- Craft Square carbon fiber mirrors
- ADVANCE aero side skirts
- Top Secret carbon fiber diffuser
- Bulletproof Automotive NSX-R conversion
- J’s Racing carbon fiber canards
- Ganador super mirrors
Interior
- BRIDE Zeta III bucket seats
- Takata 4-point racing harnesses
- Personal Neo Grinta steering wheel
- Nardi Classic wood grain steering wheel
- HKS Kansai Service shift knob
- NSX-R gauge cluster
- Mugen carbon fiber interior trim
- Alpine F#1 Status premium audio system
- Sparco pedal covers
- Works Bell quick release hub
Electronics / ECU
- AEM Engine Management System
- HKS F-CON V Pro ECU
- Hondata S300 ECU
- APEXi Power FC engine management
- ARC shift light system
- Defi Advance ZD digital gauges
- STACK ST8130 display dash
- HKS EVC boost controller
- Innovate Motorsports wideband O2 system
- Blitz turbo timer
Driving Impression / Build Philosophy
The NSX’s modifications coalesce around a central philosophy of balanced performance enhancement while preserving the car’s inherent character. Each component has been carefully selected to complement others in the system, creating a cohesive driving experience rather than a collection of disjointed upgrades.
Street-Circuit Versatility
The powertrain modifications work in concert with suspension tuning to deliver a dual-personality vehicle that remains civilized on public roads while offering track-day capabilities. The conservative power increases maintain the NSX’s renowned balance, while upgraded braking components and cooling systems guarantee consistent performance during extended spirited driving.
Purposeful Integration
Unlike builds focused solely on maximum output or show appeal, this approach prioritizes mechanical harmony. The chassis reinforcements complement suspension geometry changes, creating a platform that responds predictably to driver inputs. Each modification serves a functional purpose rather than existing for aesthetic or numerical bragging rights.
Precision-Focused Intent
The overall package targets the discerning enthusiast who values precise handling and feedback over raw straight-line speed. The modifications create a more communicative interface between driver and machine, enhancing the qualities that made the original NSX revolutionary while addressing its few shortcomings through modern engineering solutions.
FAQ
How reliable is the Acura NSX?
The Acura NSX is exceptionally reliable for a supercar, with many examples exceeding 100,000 miles without major issues. First-generation models (1990-2005) are particularly known for Honda’s bulletproof engineering, while second-generation models (2016-2022) maintain high reliability standards with more complex hybrid technology.
What are the most common issues with the NSX?
First-generation NSX models commonly experience snap ring failures in manual transmissions, deteriorating window seals, electrical issues with the pop-up headlights, and worn suspension bushings. Second-generation models may have occasional software glitches in the hybrid system and infotainment interface. Both generations require timing belt service (first-gen) or battery maintenance (second-gen hybrid).
What is the tuning potential for the Acura NSX?
The NSX responds exceptionally well to modifications. First-generation models can achieve considerable power gains through forced induction (superchargers/turbochargers), with 450-500hp easily attainable. Second-generation models can be tuned to exceed 700hp with ECU reflashing, downpipes, and cooling upgrades. Both platforms maintain excellent handling characteristics even with increased power.
What are the best modifications for an NSX?
For the first-generation, ideal modifications include Comptech or Science of Speed supercharger kits, modern coilover suspension, upgraded brake components, and stickier tires. Second-generation NSX benefits from downpipes, ECU tuning, upgraded intercoolers, and carbon ceramic brakes. For both generations, chassis rigidity upgrades considerably improve handling.
How expensive is NSX ownership compared to other supercars?
NSX ownership costs are considerably lower than comparable European supercars. Routine maintenance can be performed at Honda/Acura dealers, parts availability remains strong, and service intervals are more generous. Insurance is typically lower than for Ferraris or Lamborghinis of similar value. The first-generation NSX is particularly economical to maintain, while the hybrid system in second-generation models adds some complexity and cost.
Is the NSX suitable as a daily driver?
Unlike many supercars, the NSX was designed with daily usability in mind. It offers excellent visibility, reasonable cargo space, comfortable ergonomics, and Honda reliability. The first-generation models are especially practical with their analog driving experience and mechanical simplicity, while second-generation NSX models provide modern amenities and comfort features while maintaining supercar performance.
How does the NSX hold its value compared to other performance cars?
The NSX has demonstrated strong value retention, particularly first-generation models which have appreciated considerably. Clean, low-mileage examples of the 1990s NSX continue to rise in value. Second-generation models experienced typical luxury vehicle depreciation initially but have stabilized, with limited-production variants like the Type S holding premium values. Overall, the NSX represents a more stable investment than many exotic cars.
Conclusion
The Acura NSX continues to cast a long shadow over the automotive world decades after its initial release. Its revolutionary approach to supercar design—combining everyday usability with exceptional performance—established a blueprint that manufacturers still follow today. The NSX proved that precision engineering, reliability, and driving excitement could coexist in a single package, a philosophy that remains at the heart of modern performance vehicles.
Within JDM culture, the NSX stands as a crowning achievement—a halo car that elevated Japanese automotive engineering to unprecedented heights. Its presence at track days, car meets, and in enthusiast collections speaks to its enduring legacy. The NSX bridged worlds, earning respect from both European supercar aficionados and JDM devotees alike.
Even as automotive technology advances, the original NSX’s analog driving experience, mechanical purity, and direct connection between driver and machine continue to resonate with enthusiasts. Its influence extends beyond its production numbers, inspiring generations of drivers who appreciate its groundbreaking engineering and the statement it made when it shocked the automotive establishment in 1990.
The NSX isn’t merely remembered—it’s celebrated as the car that forever changed what we expect from performance vehicles, regardless of their origin.