What engine did the Acura NSX have?
The Acura NSX has used three distinct engines across its major generations: a mid-mounted 3.0-liter V6 in the original 1990s model, a larger 3.2-liter V6 with the facelifted late-1990s/early-2000s NSX, and a modern 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 with hybrid electric motors introduced in 2016.
Engine lineup by generation
The following sections summarize how the NSX’s powerplant evolved to meet changing performance expectations and technology.
Original NSX (early 1990s): 3.0-liter V6
In its debut, the NSX mounted a mid-engine 3.0-liter V6. The engine, known by its C30A designation, was a compact, high-revving unit designed for balance and response rather than brute torque. It produced roughly 270 hp in early US specifications and evolved to around 290 hp in later revisions.
- Mid-mounted 3.0 L V6
- 24-valve DOHC configuration
- Typically paired with a five- or six-speed manual depending on year and market
- Natural aspiration with a focus on high-rev performance
These specifications underscored the NSX’s emphasis on precision handling and a communicative high-rev engine character.
Facelift/early second phase: 3.2-liter V6 (late 1990s–2000s)
In the late 1990s, the NSX received an updated, larger engine to boost power while preserving the mid-engine layout. The 3.2-liter V6 delivered higher output and continued to emphasize a high-rev, driver-focused experience with updated electronics and drive systems across markets.
- Mid-mounted 3.2 L V6
- Displacement increased to ~3,200 cc
- Power typically around 290 hp (varies by model/year and market)
- Continued DOHC, 24-valve design
The 3.2-liter engine helped the NSX maintain competitive performance while advancing chassis and handling technology for later editions.
Current NSX (2016–present): 3.5-liter twin-turbo V6 with hybrid SH-AWD
The modern NSX represents a substantial shift from a purely aspirated setup. It uses a 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6 teamed with three electric motors as part of Honda/Acura’s Sport Hybrid Super Handling All-Wheel Drive system. The combined system output sits in the high 500s horsepower, with a focus on torque-rich performance and advanced all-weather handling rather than just peak horsepower.
- Mid-mounted 3.5 L twin-turbocharged V6
- Hybrid system with three electric motors
- SH-AWD (Sport Hybrid All-Wheel Drive)
- Combined output around 573 hp (varies by year/market)
This generation prioritizes a seamless blend of power, efficiency, and all-season handling while retaining the NSX’s distinctive mid-engine balance.
Summary: The NSX’s engine history tracks the evolution of sport engineering at Acura, moving from a high-rev, naturally aspirated 3.0 L V6 to a more muscular 3.2 L V6, and finally to a high-tech 3.5 L twin-turbo V6 paired with a hybrid system that drives the modern NSX’s performance and handling capabilities.
Does the 1992 NSX have VTEC?
The normally aspirated engine is equipped with dual overhead cams, four valves per cylinder, a Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system, and a Variable Volume Induction System (VVIS) intake configuration.
Is the NSX engine a V-6?
The NSX's 3.5-liter JNC1 V6 engine features a unique 75-degree V-angle. The car is powered by an internal combustion engine and three electric motors, which combined deliver a maximum power output of 573 hp (581 PS; 427 kW) and peak torque of 476 lb⋅ft (645 N⋅m).
Which is faster, NSX or GTR?
Then we're going to floor it so let's see what happens. 3 2 1 go oh instant pick up. There. It's those electric motors. And a bit more torque. I have got Whoa 646 new m he's got 637.
What engine does a 1990 NSX have?
Specification
| Model | NSX 3.0 | NSX 3.2 facelift |
|---|---|---|
| Size (L / W / H / WB) mm | 4405 / 1810 / 1170 / 2530 | 4430 / 1810 / 1170 / 2530 |
| Layout | Mid-engined, Rwd | Mid-engined, Rwd |
| Engine | V6, dohc, 4v/cyl, VTEC, variable intake. | V6, dohc, 4v/cyl, VTEC, variable intake. |
| Engine capacity | 2977 cc | 3179 cc |
