Further proof that tuner classics are the new collectibles.
This first-generation NA2 Acura NSX just sold for $245,000 in an online auction, lending further proof that tuner classics are the new collectibles.
Of course, the car in question is rather nice. This particular example is a 2005 Acura NSX-T sporting a mere 16,000 miles on the clock. I also looks immaculate from tip to tail. The exterior is finished in Imola Orange Pearl, complemented by orange leather upholstery in the cabin.
Exterior highlights include 17-inch forged aluminum wheels wrapped in Yokohama S Drive tires sized at 215/45 in front and 255/40 in the rear. Under the wheels is a set of gold brake calipers. Xenon headlights light the way forward, while the dual exhaust incorporates twin rounded tips.
The cabin of this Acura NSX has power-adjustable seats, cruise control, automatic climate control, and a Bose sound system with a six-disc CD changer in the trunk.
Behind the seats sits the naturally aspirated 3.2-liter V6 C32B gasoline engine, equipped with dual overhead cams and VTEC. The V6 mates to a six-speed manual transmission feeding a limited-slip differential, while peak output was rated at 290 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 224 pound-feet at 5,500 rpm from the factory.
This particular 2005 Acura NSX was recently serviced with a new water pump, timing belt, drive belts, brake pads, and spark plugs. The sale also includes an in-the-box Kyosho scale model, finished in matching orange.
Check out the full auction listing at Bring A Trailer.
Indeed, the first-generation Acura NSX is a great car. When it was first released, the NSX was best known for offering exotic mid-engine performance and technology, but at a significantly lower price point. With a lightweight all-aluminum body, aerodynamic design, and development input from the F1 legend Ayrton Senna, the Acura NSX was considered a more sensible alternative to a high-dollar Ferrari or Lamborghini.
Ironically, prices for a well-kept first-gen Acura NSX now exceed the original MSRP of those very same Italian exotics.
The Acura NSX isn't alone in this new surge of interest in classic Japanese tuner cars. The Mk. IV Toyota Supra is another popular choice for collectors, with one particular example recently selling for a whopping $201,000.
So what other classic Japanese tuner cars look primed for status as a collectible? Well, how about the Acura Integra Type R? With the reintroduction of the Integra nameplate, pristine examples from the '90s could surge in value. Other potential collectible candidates include the FD Mazda RX-7, R34 Nissan Skyline GT-R, Mitsubishi Evo, and Honda S2000. A manual transmission, low miles, and no mods are the combo to look for. Stay tuned, as we'll undoubtedly revisit this subject again in the future.
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