Is the Acura NSX a Honda?
The Acura NSX is a legendary sports car that has captured the hearts of car enthusiasts worldwide. However, many people wonder about its origins and whether it is, in fact, a Honda. In this article, we’ll explore the history and branding of the Acura NSX to clarify its connection to Honda.
The Origins of the Acura NSX
The Acura NSX was first introduced in 1990 as a high-performance sports car designed to compete with European exotics like Ferrari and Porsche. It was developed by Honda, a Japanese automaker known for its reliability and engineering excellence. The NSX was groundbreaking, featuring an all-aluminum body, a mid-engine layout, and advanced VTEC technology.
In Japan and other markets outside North America, the NSX was sold under the Honda brand. It was known as the Honda NSX, reflecting its direct connection to the parent company. However, in the United States and Canada, the car was marketed under Honda's luxury division, Acura, to align with the brand's premium image.
Why Acura in North America?
Honda launched the Acura brand in 1986 to establish a foothold in the luxury car market in North America. The Acura NSX was positioned as the flagship model for the brand, showcasing Honda's engineering prowess and Acura's commitment to luxury and performance. This branding strategy allowed Honda to compete with established luxury automakers like Lexus, BMW, and Mercedes-Benz in the U.S. and Canadian markets.
Key Features of the Acura/Honda NSX
Whether branded as an Acura or a Honda, the NSX has always been a technological marvel. Here are some of its standout features:
- All-aluminum monocoque body for reduced weight and improved performance.
- Mid-engine layout for optimal weight distribution and handling.
- VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology for enhanced engine efficiency and power.
- Precision-tuned suspension for a balance of comfort and performance.
Conclusion: Acura NSX or Honda NSX?
In summary, the Acura NSX is indeed a Honda at its core. The difference in branding is primarily a marketing decision to cater to different markets. In North America, it is known as the Acura NSX, while in Japan and other regions, it retains the Honda badge. Regardless of the name, the NSX remains a testament to Honda's innovation and engineering excellence, making it a true icon in the automotive world.
Frequently Asked Questions
What's the difference between Honda and Acura NSX?
When the first NSX launched in 1990, it was sold in North America as the Acura NSX. Acura operates as the luxury division of Honda, thus making it the perfect brand to launch this new sports experimental vehicle. The original NSX was actually sold as both the Acura NSX and Honda NSX, depending on the target market.
How rare is the Honda NSX?
In 15 years of production, from 1990 to 2005, 18,685 NSXs were built, so it wasn't a total sales disaster. Of those, 8997 went to the US, where they were badged Acura NSX, but just 1559 came to Europe, the Middle East and Africa.
Has Honda ever made a V8?
First generation (LJ/LJJ; 1993) Honda marketed the Crossroad (model code LJ, stylized as Cro$$road) in the Japanese market from October 13, 1993 to 1998 — as a rebadged Land Rover Discovery Series I. To date, the Crossroad is the only production vehicle sold by Honda to ever have a V8 engine.
Is the Acura NSX made by Honda?
The second-generation Honda NSX (New Sports eXperience; model code NC1), marketed as the Acura NSX in North America, China and Kuwait, is a two-seater, all-wheel drive, mid-engine hybrid electric sports car developed and manufactured by Honda.
Is the 1990's NSX a Honda or an Acura?
Honda NSX (first generation)
| Honda NSX (NA1/2) | |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Honda |
| Also called | Acura NSX (North America and Hong Kong) |
| Production | August 1990 – November 30, 2005 |
| Model years | 1991–2005 |
Why did Honda discontinue the NSX?
As time progressed, Honda opted to discontinue the NSX in 2005 due to declining sales figures. However, in 2015 the car made its return with a brand new generation that featured improved performance as well as plenty of modern amenities.
Is Acura owned by Honda?
Yes, you read that right. Honda, an automotive titan, is the proud parent of Acura. Honda introduced Acura, originally dubbed Channel II, to the United States in 1986. Over the years, Acura has grown to become a luxury brand synonymous with Honda's reputation for quality and reliability.
What's the difference between an Acura NSX and a Honda NSX?
When the first NSX launched in 1990, it was sold in North America as the Acura NSX. Acura operates as the luxury division of Honda, thus making it the perfect brand to launch this new sports experimental vehicle. The original NSX was actually sold as both the Acura NSX and Honda NSX, depending on the target market.
What does NSX stand for in Honda?
A team at American Honda later chose to express the definition as "New Sports eXperimental." For production, the decision was made to remove the hyphen from NS-X, leading to NSX as the official model name for Acura's first supercar.
Are Acuras just fancy Hondas?
Acura, on the other hand, is Honda's luxury division. Launched in 1986, Acura was the first Japanese premium car brand. The vehicles under this marque are designed with a greater emphasis on performance, luxury features, and a higher level of craftsmanship.
