Body
Aluminum Unit-Body Construction
- World's first aluminum production car
- Unit body weighs only 462 lbs --40% less than steel
- Incorporates unique high-strength extruded-aluminum side sills
- Unique heat treatment ensures surfaces hardness
- Highly corrosion resistant
- High torsional and bending rigidity
Cabin Forward/Long-Tail Design
- Provides best visibility in class -- 312 degrees
- Significantly improves aerodynamic balance
- Provides optimum occupant and component layout
Powertrain
VTEC System
- First application in U.S.
- Unique Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system
- Uses two different cam profiles to improve low-end torque and high-end power
- Boosts engine performance to 90 hp per liter.
Variable Volume Induction System
- Improves power and torque by optimizing air induction at all rpm
Direct Ignition
- Eliminates distributor
- Each plug has own ignition coil similar to race engine
- Delivers stable high voltage to spark plugs
Titanium Connecting Rods
- World's first use in a production car
- Stronger than steel and lightweight -- saves 190grams
- Reduces reciprocating mass for high rpm engine operation
Twin-Disc Clutch
- Two smaller-diameter friction discs replace large, heavier single disc
- Better design for high engine output
Transmission
- Refined transmission gears for quieter operation
Torque Control Differential
- Unique limited slip differential
- Improves stability in crosswinds
Chassis
All-Aluminum Suspension
- Aluminum 4-wheel double-wishbone design
- Forged-aluminum suspension arms for strength and low unsprung weight
- Front suspension utilizes unique compliance pivot for ideal suspension geometry and ride quality
- 44 lbs (20 kilograms) lighter than steel.
Four-Channel Anti-Lock Brakin2 System (ABS)
- First use in U.S.
- Provides more precise independent braking control over each wheel
Traction Control System (TCS)
- Enhances performance over wide range of conditions rather than just low friction surfaces
- System can be shut off manually by driver.
Electric Power-Assisted Steerin2 (AT models only)
- First of its kind on American market
- Electric variable power-assist uses electric motor rather than hydraulics to reduce steering effort
- Reduces weight
- Does not take power away from engine to operate hydraulic pump
Custom-Designed Tires and Wheels
- New, larger wheels and tires. Front: 215/45ZR 16 tires on 16 x 7 JJ forged alloy wheels; Rear: 245/40ZR 17 tires on 17 x 8.5 JJ forged alloy wheels
- Unidirectional tires specific to each corner of the car
- Different compounds used front and rear
- Light-weight, forged, aluminum-alloy wheels reduce unsprung weight by 19.8 lbs (9 kg) over cast wheels
Interior
Dual Air Bags plus Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners Provide Supplemental Restraint System (SRS)
- Compact air bag design allows use in small steering wheel space
- Electrical connectors are gold-plated to enhance conductivity and provide corrosion protection and reliability
- Automatic seat belt tensioners help to hold occupants in place.
Aluminum Seat Frame
- First for a production car
- Entire seat frame made of lightweight stamped aluminum
- Has 1/3 fewer parts than steel seat
- Seat rails made from aluminum extrusions
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