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Acura NSX – First Generation Chronology

Acura NSX First Generation Chronology (1991-2005)

The NSX, marketed in North America as the Acura NSX, is a two-seater, rear mid-engined, rear-wheel drive sports car manufactured by Honda from 1990–2005.

The NSX debuted at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show.


Years Available: 1991-2005

Original Engine: 3.0-liter DOHC 24-valve VTEC V-6

270 hp @ 7100 rpm, 210 lbs-ft @ 5300 rpm (with 5-speed manual)
252 hp @ 6600 rpm, 210 lbs-ft torque @ 5300 rpm (with 4-speed automatic)
Original Transmission:

5-speed manual/4-speed automatic


  • New model; first all-aluminum production car; first variable valve timing and lift in production car; first use of titanium connecting rods in production car
  • 1992: Grand Prix White exterior color available
  • 1993: passenger side airbag and seat belt tensioners standard equipment
  • 1994: larger wheels and tires standard
  • 1995: NSX-T with removable roof panel introduced; electric power steering standard; electronic throttle control standard; torque reactive differential standard; automatic models receive SportShift manual shift control
  • 1996: no changes
  • 1997: new 3.2-liter DOHC 24-valve V-6 engine produces 290 hp and 224 lbs-ft torque with 6-speed manual transmission (automatic-equipped models retain 3.0-liter combination); larger brakes with retuned anti-lock control; retuned electric power steering; dual mass flywheel; reshaped front spoiler; new wheels
  • 1998: no changes
  • 1999: Alex Zanardi Edition features exclusive wheels and tires, shift knob, numbered plaque, weight reduction, retuned suspension and titanium-finished center console and door trim
  • 2000: perforated leather upholstery standard
  • 2001: no changes
  • 2002: all NSX models feature removable roof panel, NSX-T name dropped; pop-up headlights replaced with fixed-position HID; lower air dam; redesigned taillights, air diffuser, exhaust tips, trunk lip spoiler; new Acura badging; smoother side sills; revised suspension; larger wheels and tires
  • 2003: no changes
  • 2004: redesigned meter panel surround; new shift knob; standard keyless entry system; standard trunk-mounted 6-disc CD changer
  • 2005: no changes; final model year for NSX
  • The first-generation NSX was discontinued in 2005. North American models were sold as the Acura NSX.

Acura NSX Prototype World Debut Press Conference in Chicago, February 1989.
2005 Acura NSX
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