For Gran Turismo lovers, a milestone is on sale
Officially known as the NSX-R or NSX Type-R, with the engine of the same name that mounts under the hood, it represents the sportier version of the Honda Coupé released in the early 90s. Inserted in almost all car racing games and, in particular, in Gran Turismo, it represents the Japanese answer to the almost unattainable Porsche, Ferrari and Lamborghini of the time.The silhouette is the classic that we find in the sports cars of the 80s-early 90s: razor sharp profile, low ground trim and a design inspired by the cockpit of F-16 fighter aircraft. Then there are stylistic elements typical of that period, such as the retractable front headlights (in the first version) and the fixed rear wing. Whichever way you look at it, the intentions of the Japanese Coupe are clear: to beat the competition.
Credits: TorqueGT NSX was the first production car to benefit from titanium components, such as engine connecting rods and pistons forged: a real treat for that period. The development was followed directly by the Brazilian racing driver and Formula 1 world champion Ayrton Senna, who ensured the creation of a true super sports car.
Compared to a more classic NSX, the Type-R variant boasts a lighter weight of about 120 kg, an improved set-up more geared towards track use and a series of additional accessories. No changes on the other hand for the engine which remains the 3-liter VTEC 270 hp capable of pushing the Japanese Coupé from 0 to 100 in almost 5 seconds. Power was contained but limited due to Japanese regulations that forced manufacturers to stay below 280 hp of maximum power.
TorqueGT, a specialist in Japanese cars based in England, has put up an NSX-R for auction at a price of around 400 thousand dollars: a very high value but which could even exceed half a million. The interest behind this model is particularly high among enthusiasts especially because Honda only produced 500 NSX-R NA1 (first version) and 140 NA2 (second version). The specimen for sale has assets of about 50 thousand km and it has not been specified how and where these km were covered, whether on public roads or with a more stressful use such as the track.
Credits: TorqueGT