Acura classic cars for sale

History of Acura

Acura launched in 1986 as Honda's response to the growing demand for premium vehicles in North America. It was the first Japanese brand to focus exclusively on luxury and performance, aimed at competing with established European marques. Acura’s approach combined Honda engineering with elevated comfort and technology, resulting in models that challenged both tradition and expectations. The highlight of Acura's journey was the introduction of the NSX in 1989, built with Formula 1 insights and a focus on day-to-day usability alongside performance.

Model History

Acura’s model history includes notable cars such as the NSX and Legend. The NSX broke ground in the sports car world from its debut at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show. Early models (NA1) were known for their aluminium structure and V6 mid-engine layout. The NA2 generation arrived later, with further chassis stiffening and a larger 3.2-litre engine. The second-generation Legend offered refined V6 powertrains and a focus on luxury, positioning itself against both domestic and imported competitors. Acura's ARX series underlines the brand's motorsport ambitions, joining the lineup as the manufacturer’s advanced research and racing project.

Highlights and Notable Features

The engineering influence of Ayrton Senna in the NSX’s development resulted in a sports car that set benchmarks for chassis precision and feedback. All NSX variants offer aluminium bodywork, VTEC technology, and Honda’s signature focus on balance and driver feel. In 2001, the NSX underwent a significant update, with design changes such as fixed Xenon-HID headlights and a revised rear end. Interior refinement includes sport leather seating and advanced materials for the period.

Technical Data

Special Editions and Collectible Models

The facelifted NSX from 2001 onwards is notable for its revised lighting, updated rear styling, wider rear tyres, and the exclusive NSX-T Targa variant for North America. Collectors often pursue early NA1 examples and limited-run colours or interior trims, as well as the last production models before discontinuation.

Engine and Performance, Transmission and Handling

The NSX’s mid-engine layout with a naturally aspirated V6 delivers rapid throttle response and harmonious weight distribution. Drivers highlight the precision of the 6-speed manual shift and the communicative, well-balanced chassis. The model’s evolution saw improvements like larger rear tyres and modified suspension geometry for even sharper handling post-2001. The Legend, in turn, is celebrated for its smooth V6 engines and focus on quiet luxury motoring. - NSX NA2: 45.5% of supply and 35.8% of demand share. 3.2L V6, 290 hp, manual transmission, post-2001 updates.

• NSX NA1: 18.2% of supply, 34.3% of demand. Early aluminium Honda supercar, strong following among enthusiasts.
• Legend (2nd-gen): 18.2% of supply, 19.8% demand. Refined executive V6, alternative to European saloons.

Interior, Comfort, Exterior and Design

Acura’s most celebrated models feature innovative design cues for their era—such as the NSX’s low-slung silhouette with dramatic side air intakes and a lightweight, metallic paint palette. The cockpit is focused, built around the driver, and uses premium materials like perforated leather and brushed aluminium details. The 2001 NSX facelift introduced modern lights, a more aerodynamic rear, and wider fenders, manifesting Honda’s technical prowess. The Targa roof variant added everyday usability without sacrificing visual drama.

Other Features

Acura’s participation in endurance racing with the ARX series underlines the brand’s motorsport pedigree. Aside from core road cars, technical collaborations and engineering transfer from racing have played a role in building the marque’s reputation for reliability alongside performance.

Summary

Acura classics, especially the NSX series, represent a distinctive blend of Japanese engineering, motorsport development, and usability rarely matched in their class. The strong statistical supply and demand for NSX models highlight enduring interest in these driver's cars—often benefiting from advanced materials and technologies years ahead of their time. For fans chasing precision, reliability, and a direct F1 linkage, Acura classics hold a unique appeal.