Vehicles that stay into production for a decade and a half are usually great cars. And when they come from a Japanese automaker, fifteen years is almost an eternity. At the beginning of the 1990s, car makers in Japan decided it was time to create spectacular rides that would appeal to luxury consumers abroad, so they started with rides like the LS400 from Lexus and the exotic mid-engined NSX from Acura.
Powered by a high-wind 3.2-liter V-6 engine, the NSX was capable of putting out 280 hp, complete the 0-60 mph in 5 seconds flat and reach a top speed of 170mph (the 2005 model). Produced between 1990 and 2005, the car was very innovative when it was first launched, with an all-aluminum chassis and body structure, plus a very alluring luxe interior. It actually was a pretty great car even in 2005, with its great balance and high quality standards.
- Claim to Fame: Ayrton Senna, the famous Brazilian racing driver, gave a hand in developing the car.
- Soundtrack: Best driven while listening to a loud (Formula 1 loud) song. Almost anything goes as long as it’s loud.
- Ideal Passenger: Ayrton Senna, of course, if he were still with us.
- Where to Drive It: Honda’s track at their plant in Tochigi, Japan
- How to Get Behind the Wheel: Since Honda produced the NSX for such a long time, you can be sure you’ll find one in good condition to drive.
- Did you Know? The all-aluminum body structure and chassis in the NSX preceded Ferrari’s all-aluminum designs by approximately a decade.
