What is the most sought after NSX?
The most sought-after NSX is generally the original first-generation Acura NSX, particularly the ultra-rare NSX-R variant; among newer models, the limited-run NSX Type S is highly coveted for performance and rarity.
What makes the NSX’s early years so prized
The original NSX, launched in 1990, established a benchmark for mid-engine supercars with careful materials use, excellent balance, and everyday usability. Its enduring appeal lies in a combination of design purity, historic significance, and a convincing performance-to-usefulness ratio that remains rare in modern exotics. The NSX-R, a lightweight, track-focused variant produced in small numbers for Japan, crystallized this appeal by stripping weight, refining handling, and concentrating on driver engagement.
Top contenders for the title of “most sought after” NSX
Below are the NSX variants most frequently cited by buyers and collectors as the ones to watch or own for value and legacy.
- First-generation NSX (NA1/NA2): The original 1990s NSX, celebrated for its groundbreaking engineering and iconic styling. It remains the baseline for collectibility and value among enthusiasts.
- NSX-R (Type R) variants: The lightweight, race-inspired versions built in very small numbers for Japan, prized for rarity, focused driving dynamics, and purity.
- Second-generation NSX (2016–2023) with limited editions like the NSX Type S: The modern-era performance NSX, valued by enthusiasts for its raw speed and limited production, though generally considered less collectible in the long term than the first generation.
In practice, the line between “most sought after” and “most valuable” often depends on what a buyer wants: a pristine classic with historical significance, a rare track-focused iteration, or a contemporary high-performance machine with limited availability.
What drives NSX desirability and value
Before listing the factors that affect value, it’s helpful to understand the market dynamics that enthusiasts and collectors emphasize when evaluating an NSX.
- Condition and originality: Factory-spec components, unmodified interiors, and minimal wear add significant value.
- Documentation and provenance: A complete service history, inspection records, and verifiable ownership can greatly elevate a car’s desirability and price.
- Rarity and edition: Limited-run variants like NSX-R or Type S tend to attract premium due to scarcity.
- Mileage and usage: Lower-mileage cars with careful maintenance are typically more desirable.
- Color and presentation: Original, period-correct colors and well-preserved exterior/interior details can influence value and appeal.
In summary, the most valuable NSX examples tend to combine rare editions with excellent condition, documented histories, and faithful preservation of original specifications.
Modern NSX landscape: Type S and beyond
The second-generation NSX, especially its Type S variant, represents the current peak of factory performance and limited production in the modern NSX lineup. While these cars attract strong interest from enthusiasts for their acceleration, handling, and tech, they occupy a different space in the collector market than the first-generation NSX and NSX-R. For many buyers, long-term classic status still favors the early cars and their rarer iterations.
Summary
The iconic, oldest generation NSX remains the benchmark for collectibility, with the NSX-R serving as the zenith of rarity and driver-focused engineering. Modern limited editions like the Type S command attention for performance and limited production but are generally seen as high-performance variants rather than enduring classics. For anyone looking to invest in or collect an NSX, prioritize authenticity, complete documentation, and careful preservation of original specifications to maximize value and appeal across the decades.
Summary
In short, the most sought-after NSX is the original first-generation model, especially the ultra-rare NSX-R, with modern Type S editions appealing to current-performance enthusiasts. Market value hinges on condition, provenance, and how faithfully the car has retained its factory specifications.
What is the highest selling NSX?
That honor goes to the first NC1 NSX Type S, which sold for $1.1 million in 2021.
How much is a 1999 NSX worth?
Typically, you can expect to pay around $75,150 for a 1999 Acura NSX 3.0L in good condition with average spec.
How much is a 1991 NSX worth?
The value of a 1991 Acura NSX can vary greatly depending on its condition, mileage, options, and history. Typically, you can expect to pay around $65,900 for a 1991 Acura NSX in good condition with average spec.
What is the most expensive Acura NSX?
This Acura NSX Just Sold for $370,000 and What Do You Even Say Anymore? A Silverstone Metallic NSX with a dealer-installed supercharger and 9,000 miles just set a record as the most expensive NSX ever sold on Bring a Trailer.
