A modern interpretation of the iconic Honda NSX has now been fully revealed in physical form to media aPenned by Pininfarina and engineered by race car constructor JAS, the Tensei (meaning “rebirth” in Japanese) answers the question of what an NSX would be like if it were released today instead of 35 years ago.
“JAS wanted to celebrate the NSX, a car that redefined supercars in the 1990s with its lightweight design, precision and everyday usability,” said Dimitri Vicedomini, head of exterior design at Pininfarina. The Tensei is instantly recognizable as an NSX, though it has a longer wheelbase, wider track, and larger wheels.
Defining features remain, like the retractable headlights, rectangular side intakes for its rear-mounted engine, integrated bridge spoiler. However, each aspect adopts a modern touch, like the lighting signature for the abutment-embedded taillights.
Some details, like the grilles of the intakes and rear valance, have a contemporary design. But the arrangement also seems to take inspiration from Japanese art, evoking a classic screen or textile pattern.
The Tensei replaces the NSX’s revolutionary aluminum monocoque body with carbon fiber. According to JAS, the car weighs 1250 kg (approximately 2,755 pounds), over 200 pounds lighter than the original NSX. This, despitema., adding 6.7 inches at the front and 7.5 inches at the rear.
At the heart of the build is a naturally aspirated 3.5-liter V6 engine developed in partnership with racing specialist Judd Power. Building upon the original C-series block, Judd revised internal components to increase output to 425 horsepower with an 8,500 rpm redline. The engine features individual throttle bodies, a dry-sump lubrication system, and a custom exhaust.
Power is directed to the rear wheels via a traditional six-speed manual gearbox and a mechanical Torsen limited-slip differential. The interior keeps its driver-centric layout while upgrading the original leather and plastic to Alcantara, titanium, and more carbon fiber. The givewaway that it’s not completely new car is that it doesn’t shove a big touchscreen in your face.
Sadly, JAS is making only 35 units globally, a number coinciding with the number of years since the NSX was launched. Each is estimated to cost around $985,000, but every car will be tailored tot eh customer’s tastes. Car No.001 makes its first public debut at the Paris Motor Show next week.
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I think I really like it?
Like, the price is ridiculous, and I’ll never see one, but it’s relatively faithful to the original, but also looks good in its own way. It’s also not a million-horsepower impractical joke, unlike most “hypercars” now.