To compensate for a lack of power the HSC retains the aluminum frame and aluminum and carbon fiber body panels, making for a light ride. The 4,250 mm concept is slightly shorter than the NSX too, about 180 mm from nose to tail. It's lower to the ground too, at about 1,140 mm compared to the production car's 1,171 mm height. But as far as width goes the HSC's 1,900 mm dwarfs the NSX's 1,810 mm breadth, giving the new prototype an imposing footprint.
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| With its 1,900 mm width, the HSC should have breathtaking handling. (Photo: Honda Canada) |
No doubt this wide stance leads to breathtaking handling. Being that the NSX is still phenomenally quick through the cones despite its age its replacement should at least measure up, helped along by 19-inch 5-spoke alloy wheels framing sizable 6-piston Brembo competition-style brakes.
I have to admit to being a bit disappointed that Honda is not showcasing its hybrid gasoline-electric powertrain as it did in 2001's Dualnote supercar concept. The combination of V10 power with V6 fuel economy and the resultant super-low emissions sounds too good to pass up, and we can only hope Honda considers it for the coming NSX replacement. In the end the HSC's conventional powertrain most likely signals a hybrid system won't be part of the production package anytime soon.
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| Expect something close to this general design to debut as an NSX at an auto show soon. (Photo: Honda Canada) |
Just the same Honda has created an impressive concept that could easily take the place of the reigning Acura supercar. Will the production version be as dramatic? Likely Honda will doff its conservative cloak and let the new NSX shine, so expect something close to this general design to debut as an NSX at an auto show soon. And with the automaker's ability to move quickly from concept to reality a new NSX could be available as soon as 2006.
Specifications:
- Body Type: 2-door coupe
- Layout: mid-engine, RWD
- Engine (estimate): 300+hp, 270 lb-ft of torque, 3.5-L, DOHC, 24-valve V6
- Transmission: 6-spd paddle-shift sequential gearbox
- Brakes (front/rear): disc/disc, ABS
- Seating Capacity: 2
- Web Site: www.acura.ca or www.honda.ca
