Two tributes to the iconic NSX are on the way
As technically impressive as the second-generation Acura NSX was (badged as the Honda NSX in other markets), it’s the iconic first-generation model that still gets all the attention, even decades after its release. Fortunately, for the more nostalgic Japanese sports car fans out there, the NSX isn’t making just one comeback, but two.
First, Italdesign announced it’ll be launching an NSX tribute, and now an even more exciting collaboration is doing the same: JAS Motorsport and Pininfarina. The combination of JAS Motorsport’s racing pedigree and Pininfarina’s design expertise should be formidable, and this NSX reincarnation has just been teased.
Carbon Fiber Body, Pop-Up Lights, and Naturally-Aspirated V6
Based on the first few images shared, Pininfarina has done a stellar job to pay tribute to the original car, while adding a modern twist to it. The low, wide stance of the original NSX is all there, and this modern interpretation even gets pop-up headlights, but with a trio of daytime running lights below each headlight. The black roof of some original NSXs is there, too, as are the distinctive mid-engine dimensions.
At the back, the integrated spoiler and almost full-width lighting are unmistakable links to the original NSX, but it’s still fairly restrained by modern supercar standards.
The body will be fashioned entirely from carbon fiber, starting with a donor car that’s also a production vehicle from the 1990s. This will provide an accurate chassis and mechanical base to the original. Both left- and right-hand-drive variants will be available, and the car will be powered by a naturally-aspirated V6, just like the first-gen NSX. A six-speed manual gearbox will be fitted, which should make for a refreshingly analog driving experience.
Honda’s original philosophy for the NSX has been applied to this modern reinvention in every aspect. “A car functions through a direct connection with the driver and passenger,” said Honda 35 years ago. “Its quality is determined by whether or not it inspired enthusiasm in the driver.”
This, then, won’t simply be a celebration of the original NSX’s design, but will also recall its driving spirit.
Related: Acura’s Next NSX Could Return as a Hybrid Supercar
Two Prominent Design Houses, Two NSX Tributes
Italdesign
Between this and Italdesign’s own NSX tribute, it’ll be fascinating to see which one best captures the essence of the original car. We know close to nothing about Italdesign’s plans for the NSX, as the teaser revealed little more than the rear lighting signature and no technical information was shared. Even Italdesign’s timeline for the project is unknown.
JAS Motorsport and Pininfarina have been clearer about what to expect. Set to be produced in ultra-limited numbers in Milan, Italy, their new NSX will be officially revealed in the first half of 2026. Before then, more details, such as the car’s name, will be shared. The teaser image does, however, show JAS branding on the front and rear.
Honda
Given that the original NSX’s design can be traced back to the HP-X Concept from 1984 designed by Pininfarina, this particular Italian design firm is bound to be upset if its NSX creation is upstaged by Italdesign.
For the rest of us, we’re just happy to see Honda/Acura’s legendary sports car get so much love, but don’t expect to be able to afford either of these tributes unless you’ve got deep pockets.
