What years are the Acura NSX made?

The Acura NSX has two distinct generations. The original NSX was produced from 1990 to 2005, while the modern NSX began in 2016 and continued through 2022 for the standard model, with a limited NSX Type S released for the 2023 model year. This article breaks down the production windows and what changed between generations.

First generation NSX (1990–2005)

To understand the first generation’s timeline, the production run spans roughly 1990 through 2005, encompassing the model’s global availability during its original era.

• Production years: 1990–2005

In summary, the original NSX was produced for about 15 model years before the line paused and later relaunched with a newer generation.

Second generation NSX (2016–2022); Type S for 2023 model year

The modern NSX marked Honda/Acura’s return to a mid‑engine design with a hybrid setup. Production for the standard model ran from 2016 (as the 2017 model year) through the 2022 model year, with a high‑performance variant introduced for the 2023 model year.

• Standard NSX production: 2016–2022 model years


• NSX Type S production: 2023 model year (limited to 350 units)

These windows reflect the global rollout for the second generation, including the limited Type S variant that capped the generation’s peak performance run.

Regional variations

Model-year alignment can vary by region. While the broad production spans above are widely cited, some markets began model years in different calendar years, though the overall generation timelines remain the same.

Summary

The Acura NSX has two generations: the original produced from 1990 to 2005, and the modern generation launched in 2016 with standard production through 2022. A limited NSX Type S was released for the 2023 model year, marking a high‑performance capstone for the lineup. Together, these windows outline the key production years for the NSX to date.

What are the generations of the NSX?

The Honda NSX (sold in North America as the Acura NSX) is a two-seater sports car manufactured by Honda over two generations. The first generation was produced from 1990 until 2006, whilst the second generation was made from 2016 to 2022.

What year did Acura make the NSX?

The Honda NSX was produced in two generations: the first from 1990 to 2006 and the second from 2016 to 2022. The first generation was manufactured between 1990 and 2006 (model years 1991–2006) and the second was produced from 2016 to 2022. 
You can watch this video to see a walk-around and drive of a 1991 Honda NSX: 56sFairmont Sports and ClassicsYouTube · Oct 24, 2024

• First Generation: 1990–2006
  • Marketed as the Acura NSX in North America
  • Model years: 1991–2006
• Second Generation: 2016–2022
  • Also marketed as the Acura NSX in North America 

What is the best year for the Acura NSX?

The "best" NSX year depends on personal preference, but many consider the 1991-1994 models the purest driving experience due to their manual steering and the original 3.0L V6. However, the 1997-2001 models are favored for the more powerful 3.2L engine, 6-speed manual, and additional torque, making them a popular choice for a balance of performance and usability. Finally, the 2002-2005 fixed-headlight models are sought after for their updated styling and slight suspension enhancements.
 
This video provides a comprehensive buyer's guide for the Honda/Acura NSX, including details on its various trims and production years: 1mHakosanYouTube · Jan 27, 2024
Early models (1991-1994) 

• Pros: The original, raw driving experience with manual steering and a 5-speed manual transmission, which many enthusiasts prefer for its direct feedback. 
• Cons: Less powerful engine and torque compared to later models. 

This video reviews the 1991 Acura NSX, highlighting its features and driving experience: 1mZygreneYouTube · Aug 23, 2024
Mid-generation models (1997-2001) 

• Pros: Received a larger 3.2L engine and a 6-speed manual transmission, increasing horsepower and torque for a more powerful feel. 
• Cons: Electric power steering was introduced on manual transmission models, which some drivers dislike for a less direct feel. 

Later models (2002-2005)

• Pros: Feature revised styling with fixed headlights, a slightly updated suspension, and a more modern look.
• Cons: The introduction of fixed headlights, while practical, is viewed by some as less iconic than the original pop-up lights. 

Limited edition models

• 1995: NSX-T (targa top) and automatic transmission options became available. 
• 1998: The Alex Zanardi Edition was released, a lightweight, fixed-roof model with a revised suspension and unique styling. 
• 2002: The NSX-R (Japanese market only) was released, focusing on weight reduction and improved handling. 

You can watch this video to learn more about the Alex Zanardi Edition NSX: 1mDrive CultureYouTube · Nov 1, 2024

What is the rarest NSX?

The rarest Honda NSX is the 2005 NSX-R GT, with only five ever produced as a homologation special for the Super GT race series. Other very rare models include the Alex Zanardi Edition NSX (51 units), the NA2 NSX-R (152 units), and the NA1 NSX-R (483 units).
 
You can watch this video to learn about the rarest NSX models: 59sLap of the WorldYouTube · Nov 5, 2023
Rarest overall

• 2005 NSX-R GT: Only five were ever built to meet racing homologation requirements for the GT500 class in the All Japan Grand Touring Car Championship. 

Other rare models

• Alex Zanardi Edition NSX: Only 51 were built for the US market. 
• NA2 NSX-R: With 152 built, this is rarer than the NA1 version. 
• NA1 NSX-R: 483 examples were produced exclusively for the Japanese market. 
• NA2 Type S0: A limited-run, lighter version of the Type S, with only 30 customers opting for this specific configuration.