where people and cars meet
MUNICH (September 3, 2023) – The covers are off for the CUPRA DarkRebel show car. Created from obsession, it is the maximum provocation of CUPRA design. A sports car that pushes the boundaries of design and performance, and questions the way cars will be imagined and created in the future. It’s the physical translation of the first car fully created in CUPRA’s virtual space, for a future generation of drivers. Continue reading
LOS ANGELES (August 11, 2023) – Fisker Inc. (NYSE: FSR) (“Fisker”), driven by a mission to create the world’s most emotional and sustainable electric vehicles, today released additional details on its Fisker Rōnin Super GT, an all-electric convertible that was showcased at the company’s first-ever Product Vision Day on August 3, 2023. Continue reading
LOS ANGELES (March 30, 2023) – The Petersen Automotive Museum’s newest digital “Ultimate Supercar Showdown” video series presented by Pennzoil premiered this past Saturday on the museum’s YouTube page. The episode, hosted by Doug Demuro, pits the world’s best supercars from the 80s-90s against each other, including the RUF Yellowbird and Ferrari F40 for an adrenaline-packed race on a private airstrip. Enthusiasts can expect a new episode to drop every other Saturday with additional supporting content throughout the week.
This new programming is in addition to the return of the museum’s popular automotive podcast, “CarStories,” which premieres twice a week on Spotify and Apple. Recent episodes of the podcast featured automotive influencer Daniel Mac and artist Daniel Arsham, whose exhibit “Arsham Auto Motive” is currently on display at the Petersen.
“Our mission is to preserve the history of the automobile for generations to come. This series will give automotive enthusiasts a platform to stay up to date with the ever-changing automotive industry.”
Petersen Executive Director Terry L. Karges
For more information on “Ultimate Supercar Showdown,” “CarStories” or the Petersen Automotive Museum, please visit the museum’s youtube page and website.
WELLINGBOROUGH, UK (March 23,2023) – Today, RML reveals first imagery from the initial production run of its eagerly-awaited Short Wheelbase model. The high-performance GT, which has already received numerous press plaudits in pre-production guise, pays homage to the driving purity of supercars from the past, while offering 21st-century levels of comfort and convenience. Continue reading
Christophe Piochon, President of Bugatti Automobiles, commented: “The Centodieci1 brings together all of the components of the Bugatti brand into one extraordinary package: rarity, innovation, heritage, craftsmanship and incomparable performance. The entire limited production run of ten was so sought after by our customers that it was sold out before the Centodieci had even been officially revealed. Now, we’re delighted to see that the final example has been delivered to its new owner following the intensive development, testing and bespoke creation process necessary to create a product as significant and rare as Centodieci. Continue reading
DEARBORN, Dec. 9, 2022 – Representing the ultimate and most extreme track only Ford GT ever, the new Ford GT Mk IV by Ford Performance and Multimatic is a radically advanced supercar delivering max performance with its unique body, powertrain and suspension.
To deliver unconstrained performance, exceeding that of any Ford GT to date, the Ford GT Mk IV has a unique twin-turbo EcoBoost engine, racing transmission, aero-focused exterior design, and chassis with longer wheelbase for greater on-track handling. Continue reading
After a successful haul in our $2,000,000 Amelia Island Challenge, we’re heading south to the Auctions America sale in Fort Lauderdale. Our Petrolhead Godmother continues with her generosity; this time with $1,000,000 to play with this weekend. Using Auction America’s HIGH estimate, choose one or choose several cars (no motorbikes or automobilia) that you would like to bring home. We’ll get started:
Lot 108 — 1973 Peugeot 504 Cabriolet
Estimate $30,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $13,500 including premium
Featured in a Pick Of The Day last year, this is an presentable example of a car rarely seen on these shores. While it shows signs of wear and previous body repairs, this Peugeot 504 has had recent paint and is a complete example of a classic Pininfarina styling.
Lot 177 — 1978 Aston Martin V8 Volante
Estimate $150,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $151,250 including premium 
Not much information is in the catalog beyond the history of the V8 as a model, but this looks to be a rather tidy example, complete with books and tools. Although it is an automatic, it would still make for some very pleasant open touring.
Lot 226 — 1989 Porsche 911 Turbo (930)
Estimate $85,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $82,250 including premium
Although we aren’t given an odometer reading other than its condition belies the miles, this looks to be an excellent original example of a one-year-only 5-speed 930. Its high estimate would appear to be a bargain relative to other 1989s in like condition (not to mention the 1976 model that runs earlier in the day, estimated at $200,000).
Lot 317 — 1935 Ford Model A “Ratrod’ Pickup
Estimate $40,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid $26,000
This is another one of those lots that we’d chase only when Petrolhead Godmother is footing the bill, but that said, it is dandy. Powered by a 350 V8, its steel body has been chopped, stanced, channeled and dropped. Period wheels and tires cover front disc brakes. A very nicely built blend of bootleg-era looks and contemporary performance.
Lot 356 — 1949 Cadillac Series 61 Club Coupe Sedanette
Estimate $65,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $55,000 including premium 
The C-Body Cadillacs of 1948 and 1949 brought together big advances in engineering with the overhead-valve V8 and alluring looks. Here we see the first nubs of Harley Earl’s tailfins punctuating a sleek and graceful body, particularly in the fastback “Sedanette” form. This one form 1949 was a former barn find restored to its current condition with a rebuilt original drivetrain. It’s a positively gorgeous American cruiser that is said to drive quite well.
Lot 472 — 1981 Renault R5 Turbo
Estimate $75,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $49,500 including premium 
The Renault R5 Turbo is in many ways an answer to a question no-one was asking. It’s a completely insane answer, yet it makes perfect sense at the same time. Take a pedestrian Renault R5 (what we might remember as Le Car) and transform it into a mid-engined beast that eats supercars for breakfast. This example looks to have been restored at some point to what appears to be a high degree, yet appears to have been used as intended which is to drive the merde out of it. What’s not to love?
Lot 486 — 1989 Lamborghini Countach 25th Anniversary
Estimate $425,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid of $320,000
Petrolhead Godmother always says, “if you get thrown from a bull, get right back on.” We missed out on the Lamborghini Countach 5000S Quattrovalvole at Gooding and Company’s Amelia Island sale earlier this month, thus we’re somewhat compelled to try again. This time it’s the ultimate expression of the Countach, the coveted 25th Anniversary model. This one shows beautifully in its classic Italian combination of red on tan. With a recent service and less than 21,000 km, it promises to be appropriately raging.
Lot 622 — 1948 MG TC
Estimate $52,000
UPDATE: STILL FOR SALE high bid $37,500 
Few capture the charm of early British motoring the way an MG TC does. Future TDs and TFs were already becoming too modern. This one from 1948 has been used sparingly since undergoing an older high quality restoration. It condition remains show worthy, but this little thing begs to be thrown on the open road, only stopping for a picnic. The Clipper Blue finish is a nice departure as well.
We came to a total of $922,000. Buyer’s premiums will put us slightly over the million dollar mark, but once again we’ll err on the side of excess when spending the Petrolhead Godmother’s money. Let us know what your picks are in comments.
For the complete Auctions America Fort Lauderdale 2015 results click here.
If you’ve watched or participated in any of the /DRIVE eBay challenges on YouTube, you know how this works. In this case, your Petrolhead Godmother just plopped $2,000,000 USD in your lap to spend as you like at this weekend’s auctions during the Amelia Island Concours d”Elegance. Using the auction companies’ HIGH estimates, pick one or pick several cars (no motorbikes or automobilia) that you would like to haul home. We’ll get started:
From Bonhams – Thursday, March 12
Lot 118 — 1962 Austin Healey 3000 MK II BT7 2+2
Estimate $50,000-$60,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $51,700 including premium
In recent years, Big Healeys have gone through a bit of a downturn after a sharp rise in the mid- to late-2000s. Within the last year or so, the market has caught up. It appears now to have made the corrections and adjustments such that they’re realistically priced, vis à vis a Series 1 E-Type on one end of the spectrum and say an MGB at the other. Among the Austin Healey 3000 MKs, many find the middle-gen MK II the most appealing, particularly in the 2+2 BT7 configuration. The MK II had the shortest production run and was an ideal bridge between the rawness of the MK I’s triple carburetors, along with a classic oval dash, and the MK III’s refinements (roll-up windows and a wraparound windscreen). This example radiates its British Roadster-ness, with the Old English White paint over Red interior. It is said to have had a thorough restoration in the late 2000s (just as the market flattened) and reports to be an excellent performer with a strong motor and 4-speed overdrive gearbox. Bonhams estimate of $50-60K is right on the money.
Lot 168 — 1912 Peerless Model 60 Runabout
Estimate $250,000-$350,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $440,000 including premium
It may be the type of car that we pursue only when someone dumps $2M in our laps (or we have a discretionary $350,000 laying around), but given such an event, a Peerless Runabout would certainly be one to go after. Among its superlatives are first to offer electric headlamps, first to offer an electric starter, and, in the case of the Model 60 presented here, most cubic inches ever stuffed under an American-made hood (824). The Peerless Model 60 was arguably the fastest thing on the road in the Brass Era. This example was resto-mod’ed in the ‘60s. In that process, some liberties were taken to improve the car’s drivability. These include a shortened chassis, as well as modified steering and brakes, along with coachwork enhancements that give it the Runabout appearance of a 45-hp Model 32 whilst retaining the 66-hp 13.5-liter lump. So while not original, it is a gorgeous representation of motoring’s earliest days and carries with it some notable provenance.
From Gooding and Company – Friday, March 13
Lot 021 — 1977 Ferrari 308 GTB Vetroresina
Estimate $175,000-$225,000
UPDATE SOLD FOR $192,500 including premium
Less than a decade ago, the predecessor of the iconic Ferrari 308 GTB, the 246 GT, wasn’t even considered a real Ferrari, with its “entry-level” Dino badging. Ever since, many of us have sat by helpless as their values have increased ten-fold in that time. As those at the very highest echelons of automotive investing have often pondered what the next 250 GTO might be (the answer: the 250 GTO is the next 250 GTO), the broader masses are wondering whether the 308 will follow its progenitor toward the half-million dollar mark. This isn’t a science and there are no formulas and even less guarantees, but it does stand to reason. Specifically, the first to get there would likely be one of the early lightweight 308 GTBs, whose bodies were made of GRP fiberglass, or vetroresina. Only 712 were made before other weight savings allowed for steel bodies that were close to the Vetroresina’s overall weight. At last summer’s Silverstone Classic, a steel bodied, targa-roof, wet-sump 1979 308 GTS set a world record at £82,225 (around $124,500 USD). A much rarer glass GTB should do considerably better. Offered without Reserve.
Lot 24 — 1987 Lamborghini Contact 5000 QV
Estimate $425,000-$475,000
UPDATE: HIGH BID $375,000
With early examples of the Lamborghini LP 400 Countach “Periscopa” now fetching seven figures, logic would have it that later generations will follow suit, at least to some degree. The most likely candidate would be the 25th Anniversary editions of 1988, but on the heels of those would be the 48-valve Countach 5000 QV (quattrovalvole). Only 610 of these bulls were built. This one looks to be especially unique in its Pearl White finish and Ivory interior. Furthermore, most of them were ordered with the optional rear wing whereas the owner of this one (who owned it until 2014) opted to retain the original lines of the LP 400, complemented by swapping the gruesome US-mandated bumpers with the svelte ones it was designed to have. With a fresh service, it is described in “as new” mechanical condition. The quintessential bedroom poster car of the ’80s, this Countach might be a relative bargain at its high estimate of $475,000.
Lot 024 — 1976 Alpine A110
Estimate $100,000-$140,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $88,000 including premium
When the name Alpine is mentioned in automotive circles, the vast majority of people—at least those of us in the US—think of car stereos. Even among enthusiasts, many consider Alpine—the car—to be a Renault sports/GT. Alpine (pronounced AL-peen-UH), however was an independent manufacturer that outfitted their chassis and fiberglass bodies with, primarily, Renault drivetrains until being bought out by Renault in 1973. Shortly thereafter, Alpine Renault gained notoriety in motorsport by winning the inaugural World Rally Championship with a competition-spec A110. Although they never reached the same level of success in competition, the rally inspiration carried through until the end of the A110’s run in 1977 (replaced by the edgier A310). This included the French Racing Blue livery, racing seats and auxiliary lights. This example comes from its penultimate year and is equipped exactly as such. On a purely objective basis, the Alpine A110 can be seen as a poor man’s Porsche 911 2.7 Carrera RS. What it lacks in raw horsepower, it makes up for with its uniqueness and French charm. Okay, maybe not entirely but it is a lightweight rear-engined production car-turned motorsport-turned production car for about half the cost of the RS Carrera. And, should the Nissan GTR-based Alpine A110-50 come to be, there could be a new appreciation for a distinguished brand. Offered without Reserve.
Lot 034 — 1934 Packard Eight 1101 Coupé Roadster
Estimate $180,000-$220,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $143,000 including premium
The Packard Eight was the right car at the wrong time. The absolute worst time. By the time of the 11th Series (Packard did not follow model-year convention) at the end of 1933, the US was just beginning to emerge—but still deeply in—the Great Depression. The American consumer was struggling to buy bread and while there was plenty of wealth at the opposite end of the scale, those customers had much more exclusive Duesenbergs and Rolls-Royces to consider. Those in the middle that could afford a new car were flocking to the Ford V8, costing more than five times less (granted, far less creature comforts as well). The Packard Eight simply couldn’t find a significant market. For this reason alone, it deserves a place in a collection today. This 1101 Coupé Roadster (complete with rumble seat) remains remarkably original, never in need of total restoration, though it did have some high-quality reconditioning at various times in its life. It has a known owner history and has been exceptionally cared for. At roughly 10% of comparable Duesie or Rolls money, this Packard Eight is a delightful example of ’30s luxury. Offered without reserve.
From RM Sotheby’s – Saturday, March 14
Lot 126 – 1934 Bentley 31⁄2-Litre Drophead Coupé
Estimate $275,000-$375,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $231,000 including premium
While Packard and Duesenberg represented what an American car should be in 1934, Rolls-Royce and the then recently acquired Bentley Motors represented the peak of the European automotive landscape (much as they do today). Where the Packard was about comfort, strength, durability, and sheer mass, the Bentley was, as E.W. Hives, the 31⁄2-Litre’s principal designer in Derby put it, “to be driven fast with safety or will tour without fuss and noise.” While any Derby Bentley is special, this particular 31⁄2-Litre is that much more so for being largely bespoke for its initial owner, a Mr. M.S. Spencer-Naim. Mr. Naim ordered a three-position cabriolet body to be built by Thrupp and Maberly, as well as a unique speedometer-clock cluster and shortened steering column and gear lever. After serving in WWII, Mr. Naim returned to growing family and regrettably sold Chassis B75BL to R.E. Merchant who was its steward until 1984, when it was sold to Howard Brown of California. Mr. Brown intended to do a bare-metal repaint, but sadly died before it was complete. Mr. Brown’s wife sold it to its current owner who completed the repaint, along with new carpets, replaced wood and new wheel discs. With only four passionate owners, it’s no surprise that it retains an extraordinary documented history, including log books, build sheets and the original owner’s handbook that have been issued by Bentley Motor Cars, and the service file, which dates back to 1953. This is a car that lends itself perfectly to historic tours and/or concours, from club events to the international stage. For roughly new Continental GTC Speed money, this Bentley has million dollar looks and a priceless history.
Lot 197 — 1952 Mercedes-Benz 220 Cabriolet A
Estimate $150,000-$200,000
UPDATE: SOLD FOR $286,000 including premium
On its own, this is a stunning example of a rare pre-SL Mercedes-Benz sports-tourer. Although not a pure sports car legend like the 300 SL Roadster, production numbers are significantly lower for the 220 Cabriolet A (the ‘A’ being two seats plus a “kinder,” whilst the ‘B’ had a full four seats). Only 1,278 were sold (vs. 1,858 SL Roadsters). Its 2.2-litre inline six, with its innovative “oversquare” architecture (shorter stroke than bore dimension), was to become a stalwart Mercedes-Benz power plant well into the ’70s while its rich leathers, carpeting and wood never allow its occupants to forget that they are in a Mercedes-Benz. With only 20 miles since an older restoration, this one looks as new with exceptional paint and fresh interior. The custom fitted luggage and Telefunken radio are also a nice touch. By itself, easily worth the $200,000 high estimate, but as a complement to the Bentley we bought earlier (Lot 126), it is an absolute must-have.
Our spree totals $2,045,000. Yes, its over, but we’ll err on the side of excess when spending the Petrolhead Godmother’s money. Let us know what your picks are in comments.
Update: March 15, 2015 – Out three-auction, three-day total came to $1,432,200. This leaves us with over $500,000 to close a deal on the 1988 Lamborghini Countach 5000 QV, the only no-sale of our picks. At the end of bidding, auctioneer Charlie Ross announced that its high bid of $375,000 was “very close.”
Bargain of the Day honors, if one can call them that, belong to our Bentley 31⁄2-Litre which sold below its catalogue estimate for $231,000 including premium.
Bonhams
http://goo.gl/mgucJd
Gooding and Company
http://goo.gl/dTUh7Y
RM Auctions | Sotheby’s
http://goo.gl/S9PprM
Ford today unveiled the all-new GT, an ultra-high-performance supercar that serves as a technology showcase for top EcoBoost® performance, aerodynamics and lightweight carbon fiber construction.
The GT is one of more than 12 new Ford Performance vehicles coming by 2020. It joins Focus RS, F-150 Raptor, Shelby GT350 and Shelby GT350R in the growing Ford Performance lineup.
Beginning production late next year, the GT hits the road in select global markets to celebrate the 50th anniversary of Ford GT race cars placing 1-2-3 at the 1966 24 Hours of Le Mans.
“As we at Ford drive innovation into every part of our business, it’s worth remembering that our first innovation as a company was not in a laboratory, but on the racetrack,” said Mark Fields, Ford president and chief executive officer, referring to Henry Ford’s win of a 1901 car race that inspired financial backers to invest in his company. “We are passionate about innovation through performance and creating vehicles that make people’s hearts pound.”
The all-new GT supercar features rear-wheel drive, a mid-mounted engine, and a sleek, aerodynamic, two-door coupe body shell. It is propelled by the most powerful EcoBoost production engine ever – a next-generation twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 producing more than 600 horsepower.
The GT makes extensive use of lightweight materials, including carbon fiber and aluminum – enabling outstanding acceleration and handling with improved efficiency.
Ford’s commitment to and capability in delivering technologies typically offered only in elite vehicles is evident in the GT. These include advanced active aerodynamics, such as a deployable rear spoiler, and a host of material and technology innovations to help better serve the driver, such as SYNC® 3 – the latest version of Ford’s advanced connectivity system.
“The GT is the ultimate execution of an enthusiast supercar,” said Raj Nair, Ford group vice president, Global Product Development. “GT includes innovations and technologies that can be applied broadly across Ford’s future product portfolio – another proof point that Ford continues raising the performance bar while ultimately improving vehicles for all of our customers.”
Carbon fiber innovation
Few innovations provide a more wide-ranging performance and efficiency advantage than reducing weight. All factors of a vehicle’s capabilities – acceleration, handling, braking, safety, efficiency – can improve through the use of advanced, lighter materials.
The all-new GT features advanced lightweight composites, which will help serve Ford’s entire product lineup moving forward. With the broad application of structural carbon fiber elements, the GT will exhibit one of the best power-to-weight ratios of any production car.
Anchored by a carbon fiber passenger cell, the GT features aluminum front and rear subframes encapsulated in structural carbon fiber body panels. Carbon fiber is one of the world’s strongest materials for its mass – enabling an ultra-stiff foundation for chassis components, while creating a lighter overall package for increased dynamic performance and efficiency.
Most powerful production EcoBoost ever
Ford EcoBoost technology is available in every new Ford car, utility and light-duty pickup in North America beginning this year.
EcoBoost engines power a growing number of Ford performance models, including the new Mustang, just-announced F-150 Raptor, as well as Fiesta ST and Focus ST.
Based on the same race-proven engine architecture serving Ford’s IMSA Daytona Prototype endurance racing efforts, the next-generation twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter EcoBoost V6 in the GT features a wide powerband with impressive time-to-torque characteristics.
The engine demonstrates remarkable efficiency – a key attribute of its endurance racing-derived powertrain, where exceptional performance combined with efficiency is a critical competitive advantage.
Ford’s twin-turbo EcoBoost V6 raced to three wins in its first season of the IMSA TUDOR United SportsCar Championship in 2014, including a win in the prestigious 12 Hours of Sebring, along with seven podiums over more than 15,000 endurance racing miles.
The GT features an all-new, port/direct dual fuel-injection setup to improve engine response, plus a low-friction roller-finger-follower valvetrain. The twin-turbocharged EcoBoost V6 will be paired with a seven-speed dual-clutch transaxle for near-instantaneous gear changes and exceptional driver control.
Aero innovation gets active
Aerodynamic efficiency is at the heart of the GT design, actively reducing drag while aiding downforce and stability.
From its optimum tear-drop shape to its aircraft-inspired fuselage and visibility-enhancing curved windshield, every slope and shape is designed to minimize drag and optimize downforce.
Although each surface on the GT is functionally crafted to manage airflow, it also features fully active aerodynamic components to improve braking, handling and stability.
An active rear spoiler is keyed to both speed and driver input, reactively deploying and adjusting its height and/or pitch angle depending on conditions.
Designed for purpose
While it shares a legacy with classic Ford racing and performance cars, GT is a fully contemporary and functional shape that communicates modernity and pure beauty.
The state-of-the-art chassis is suspended by an active racing-style torsion bar and pushrod suspension, with adjustable ride height. The 20-inch wheels are shod with Michelin Pilot Super Sport Cup 2 tires featuring a unique compound and structure designed specifically for the Ford GT. Multi-spoke wheels encircle carbon-ceramic brake discs at all four corners.
The narrow-profile canopy reduces frontal area and caps a purposeful interior that provides state-of-the-art technology to ensure control, comfort and safety. The two-seat cockpit is accessed by upward-swinging doors, and features driver and passenger seats integrated directly into the carbon fiber passenger cell.
This configuration significantly reduces seating hardware and weight, and provides a consistent and direct sensory connection to the chassis. The fixed seating is combined with adjustable pedals and steering column to accommodate a very wide range of driver statures.
An F1-style steering wheel integrates all necessary driver controls, creating a stalkless steering column that allows uncluttered access to the transmission paddle-shift controls. A fully digital and configurable instrument cluster provides a wealth of driver-focused data. The display is configurable for multiple driving environments and different driving modes.
“While we hope enthusiasts rejoice about this all-new GT, all Ford customers will benefit from the ultimate performance Ford and its new-generation innovations,” said Nair.
Acura takes the wraps off its highly anticipated next-generation NSX supercar, designed to deliver a groundbreaking “New Sports eXperience”
Twenty-five years after the debut of the original, paradigm-shifting NSX supercar, Acura revealed the production version of its highly anticipated successor—the next-generation Acura NSX, developed and produced in the U.S.—to the world’s auto media at the 2015 North American International Auto Show today. The production model, in a scintillating NSX Red finish, took the stage with a growl from its twin-turbocharged engine.
The next generation NSX showcases the production styling, design and specifications of Acura’s mid-engine sports hybrid supercar, and Acura announced key details of the all-new vehicle’s design and performance. The company will begin accepting custom orders for the new NSX starting in the summer, with customer deliveries expected later in the year.
Specifically created to bring a “new sports experience” to the supercar segment, the NSX challenges conventional beliefs about supercars — much as the first generation did a quarter century ago. The approach is realized through an all-new power unit—a twin-turbocharged 75-degree DOHC V6 engine with a 9-speed dual clutch transmission (DCT) and three-electric motor Sport Hybrid system—integrated with an ultra-rigid and lightweight multi-material body with world’s-first material applications and manufacturing processes. Developed under the concept of a “human-centered supercar,” a car that puts the driver first in every aspect of its design, the next-generation NSX will leverage its state-of-the-art hybrid supercar power unit, body and chassis to deliver exceptionally intuitive and immediate response to driver inputs.
“Our commitment was to create an all-new NSX that is true to the heritage of NSX—a supercar that delivers a new driving experience, one where every part of the vehicle is respectful of the smartest part of the car, the driver,” said Mike Accavitti, senior vice president and general manager of the Acura division. “The soul of a car is the emotional connection it makes with the driver. With the NSX, that connection will be intense and immediate.”
As the pinnacle representation of Acura performance and prestige, the NSX was introduced at the auto show under the theme of “Precision Crafted Performance.” The theme was the original tagline for the Acura brand, a guiding force behind the development of the original NSX and a critical component of its launch.
The development of next-generation NSX, driven by precision crafted performance, has resulted in a clean-sheet design, which involved nearly three years of intensive development effort by a global design and engineering team led by engineers at the company’s development center in Raymond, Ohio.
“The NSX reflects Acura’s American roots and makes a powerful statement about the strong role being played by our North American operations in envisioning and building the future of Acura,” said Erik Berkman, executive vice president of the Acura Business Planning Office.
“Our global team embraced the challenge to create a new sports car experience, leveraging new technology to deliver incredibly vivid performance in a vehicle that responds intuitively and immediately to the will of the driver,” said Ted Klaus, chief engineer and global development leader of the new NSX. “The NSX delivers pinnacle supercar performance, with zero-delay acceleration and exhilarating, confidence-inspiring driving dynamics.”
Interwoven Dynamic Exterior Design
“The new NSX is a product of what we term ‘Interwoven Dynamic’ design,” said Michelle Christensen, NSX exterior design project leader. “It represents the ideal blending of exotic sports car form and supercar function.”
The NSX body features classic low and wide proportions married to modern and alluring surfacing, an aggressive front design, and tail lights that pays homage to the original NSX. The signature side intake and floating C-pillar collects air to feed the mid-mounted engine and directs airflow over the rear deck to increase downforce. To accommodate the new longitudinally mounted twin-turbo V6 and 9-speed DCT, the production vehicle was lengthened (+3 inches) and widened (+1 inch) with a slightly more cab-forward package, compared with the proportions of the NSX Concept shown in 2012.
Every element of the exterior body design has been carefully fashioned for total airflow management for both stability-enhancing downforce and vehicle systems cooling. The NSX has undergone extensive testing at the company’s state-of-the-art wind tunnel in Raymond, Ohio, leading to a number of significant changes from concept to final body design, including modified hood vents, new front fender vents, modified side air intakes, and an optimized deck spoiler.
Dimensions:
| NEW NSX | 2013 NSX Concept | Diff (in.) | 2005 NSX | Diff (in.) | |
| Length | 176 in. (4470 mm) | 172.8 in. (4390mm) | +3.1 | 174.2 in. (4425 mm) | +1.8 |
| Width | 76.4 in. (1940 mm) | 75.4 in (1915 mm) | +1.0 | 71.3 in. (1810 mm) | +5.1 |
| Height | 47.8 in. (1215 mm) | 47.2 in. (1200 mm) | +0.6 | 46.1 in (1170 mm) | +1.8 |
| Wheelbase | 103.5 in. (2630 mm) | 102.8 in. (2610 mm) | +0.8 | 99.6 in. (2350 mm) | +11.0 |
| Front track | 65.2 in. (1655 mm) | – – | – – | 59.5 in. (1510 mm) | +5.7 |
| Rear track | 63.6 in. (1615 mm) | – – | – – | 60.7 in. (1540 mm) | +3.0 |
Human Support Cockpit
“Consistent with the ‘human-centered supercar’ development concept, the NSX was designed from the inside out with an uncompromising focus on the driver,” said Johnathan Norman, NSX interior design project leader. “Like the original NSX, we created a ‘Human Support Cockpit’ that provides exceptional driver control, visibility and packaging, but further advanced to meet the extreme performance expectations of a modern supercar.”
The NSX interior boasts exceptional forward visibility, simple and intuitive controls, and class-leading ergonomics—most notably the seat, which features top-class holding performance with outstanding comfort and easy ingress/egress.
The NSX’s instrument cluster features a dynamic TFT display that responds to changes in the driver-selectable Integrated Dynamics System with pertinent graphics and information. The center console holds the Power button that readies the sport hybrid powertrain, nested in the center of the new Integrated Dynamics System dial control. Interwoven under the handcrafted leather dash panel is the exposed midframe—a functioning chassis structural member that reflects the design aesthetic of a naked sport bike. An ultra-thin, yet super strong A-pillar design and low-mounted instrument panel minimize obstructions to the driver’s view of the road.
Sport Hybrid Power Unit
In keeping with the foundational philosophy of the original NSX, the next-generation NSX is designed to provide a new sports car experience that maximizes the capabilities of the driver, delivering exceptionally intuitive and confidence-inspiring response “at the will of the driver.”
Acura engineers leveraged the company’s expertise both with high-performance engine and hybrid electric-drive technologies, as well as its two decades of experience with industry-leading dynamic torque-vectoring technologies, including Super-Handling All-Wheel Drive (SH-AWD), to create the most sophisticated, technologically advanced and intelligent powertrain in the supercar universe.
At the heart of the NSX’s performance capabilities is an all-new mid-mounted, 75-degree, DOHC V6 engine with twin turbochargers mated to an Acura-developed 9-speed DCT. The V6 engine employs a race-inspired compact valve train and dry sump lubrication system to help lower the center of gravity. The all-new 9-speed DCT delivers synapse-quick gear changes and rev-matching downshifts. The rear direct-drive electric motor, housed between the engine and transmission, supports acceleration, braking and transmission shifting performance. The NSX’s front wheels are driven by twin independent high-output electric motors which deliver instantaneous torque response and dynamic left-to-right torque distribution.
The NSX uses its front electric motors for dynamic torque vectoring in addition to enhancing acceleration and braking performance. The result is an instantaneous “zero delay” launch performance and handling response that seems to anticipate the driver’s desire. The NSX has undergone extensive testing at some of the world’s most challenging race circuits, including the famed Nurburgring.
Advanced Multi-Material Body
Also in keeping with the legacy of NSX—the world’s first all-aluminum supercar—the new NSX features an innovative new multi-material body design with world’s-first material applications and construction processes.
The NSX body utilizes a space frame design—an internal frame constructed of aluminum, ultra-high strength steel and other advanced materials. Anchored by a carbon fiber floor, torsional and bending forces are taken up entirely by this ultra-rigid structure which also utilizes advanced joining technologies.
The NSX features world’s-first casting technology that combines the design and manufacturing flexibility of a casting process with the strength and elongation properties of a forged material, enabling significant weight reduction. The body panels are composed of a combination of aluminum and sheet molding composite (SMC).
Advanced Sport Package
The NSX features an “Advanced Sports Package” with placement of key powertrain components –the mid-mounted engine, twin front motors and Sport Hybrid battery pack and power control unit – optimized to concentrate vehicle mass low and toward the center of the vehicle, to further enhance dynamic response. The combination of this packaging concept and the lightweight body give the NSX the lowest center of gravity in its class.
The NSX utilizes a fully independent, all-aluminum front and rear suspension and puts its considerable power down through ContiSportContact™ high-performance tires—245/35Z R19 front and 295/30Z R20 rear—mounted on 19×8.5 inch front and 20×11 inch rear aluminum alloy wheels. Powerful, natural and confident braking performance is provided by 6-piston front and 4-piston rear monoblock calipers squeezing ultra-high performance carbon-ceramic brake discs.
Handling is greatly enhanced by Sport Hybrid Super-Handling All Wheel Drive (Sport Hybrid SH-AWD), enabling lightning-quick response to all driver inputs—steering, braking and throttle—along with the stability, control and launch performance of all-wheel drive. Agile Handling Assist (AHA) uses the subtle application of brake torque to further enhance yaw response and dynamic stability.
The NSX’s dial-operated Integrated Dynamic System features Quiet, Sport, Sport+ and Track modes. The system adjusts engine, motor, transmission and chassis response, as well as the engine sound level, based on the needs of the driver and driving environment. Quiet mode enables electric-only driving at lower speeds for short durations. Dynamic vehicle responses become increasingly sharp as the driver moves from Sport to Sport+ mode and, finally, to Track mode, where the NSX reveals the full spectrum of its performance capabilities.
The NSX also features a “launch” function to achieve the ultimate in “zero delay” launch performance, aided by both the engine and three electric motors.
New Production Facility
The NSX will be manufactured exclusively at the Performance Manufacturing Center (PMC) in Marysville, Ohio, where approximately 100 highly-skilled associates will conduct full body construction, paint, and final assembly using domestic and globally-sourced parts.
The PMC and its processes have been developed to perfectly blend associate craftsmanship and technology in a new approach to manufacturing. By in-housing the body construction, Acura maintains complete control over total body quality, including critical strength, suspension accuracy, and fit and finish—from initial construction all the way to final assembly.
Associates will utilize innovative techniques to deliver next-generation craftsmanship and world-class quality in the realm of specialized, supercar vehicle production.
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