The Acura Division of American Honda Motor Co., Inc. introduces the 1992 NSX sports car. The two-seat, all-aluminum NSX offers the performance and styling of a mid-engine exotic, but with the Acura reputation for reliability and quality.
"The NSX is a milestone automobile that offers uncompromised performance and redefines the pure sports car driving experience," said Ed Taylor, vice president, Acura Division. "The NSX embodies the comfort and reliability Acura is known for, bringing an unprecedented level of quality and drive ability to the mid-engine exotic class."
The NSX is the world's first aluminum production car. Every major component is constructed of aluminum for light weight, which provides an outstanding power-to-weight ratio and excellent handling. Use of aluminum for the entire body construction provides a 40% weight savings over an equivalent steel body.
Like the chassis, the suspension is made entirely of aluminum. It features double-wishbone suspension, front and rear with special gas-charged, Honda Progressive Valve (HPV)-equipped shock absorbers. To optimize handling characteristics, the front tires are mounted on 6.5 JJ x 15 aluminum alloy wheels, while the rear tires are mounted on substantially larger 8.0 JJ x 16 wheels.
Powering the NSX is a 3.0-liter, DOHC, 24-valve, V-6 engine that produces 270 horsepower. This engine features a unique Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control System (VTEC)- a first for a production automobile in the U.S. This system varies the lift and duration of each cylinder's four valves to optimize both low end torque and high RPM performance.
Another first for the NSX is the use of forged titanium connecting rods in the engine to reduce reciprocating weight and enhance high RPM performance. The NSX can achieve a track-tested top speed in excess of 165 mph, acceleration from 0 to 60 mph in 5.03 seconds and run the 1/4 mile in under 14.0 seconds.
A 5-speed manual transmission is standard on the NSX. A 4-speed automatic with electric power steering is optional.
The NSX is a showcase of leading edge technology. Among its many systems is Traction Control, which automatically reduces engine power to help eliminate wheel spin on low-traction surfaces. Yet unlike some other traction control systems, this Honda R & D development was created as a high performance system that functions over a wide range of speeds and cornering situations rather than simply a low-speed traction enhancing device.
A new 4-channel Anti-Lock Braking (ABS) system is standard on the NSX and controls each wheel independently for optimum performance on wet or slippery surfaces. Other engineering features include a torque control differential and twin disc clutch.
Inspiration for the NSX exterior design came from the F16 jet aircraft. The influence can be seen in the canopy-forward design which offers more visibility than any other exotic sports car.
The aerodynamic NSX achieves a coefficient of drag rating of 0.32. It also has a low coefficient of lift of 0.05 and a low yaw moment. Emphasis was on total aerodynamics, achieving a balance of lift, drag and yaw forces. The long tail design and the integrated rear spoiler help achieve the car's stability.
Interior appointments include leather-trimmed power seats, automatic climate control, Acura/Bose® music system, theft deterrent system and a driver's side air bag (SRS).
The NSX is built in a dedicated plant in Tochigi, Japan adjacent to Honda's R & D facility. Only 32 hand built vehicles can be produced per working day on the innovative, low-volume production line.
For 1992, The NSX is available in Grand Prix White, in addition to the three original color choices: Formula Red, Berlina Black and Sebring Silver. NSX in Grand Prix White and Sebring Silver are available with a Black interior; all other colors are available with a choice of a Black or Ivory interior.
The NSX is covered by a 3-year, 36,000-mile limited warranty.
The Acura Division of American Honda offers a range of performance/ luxury automobiles that includes the NSX, the Legend Sedan and Coupe, the Vigor, and the Integra 3-and 4-door sports sedans.