The original Acura/Honda NSX holds a legendary place in automotive history. While the second-generation model garnered respect, it never reached the cult status of the 1990s original. Now, Italian design firm Pininfarina and racing powerhouse JAS Motorsport are bringing the icon back to life with a stunning, modern restomod called ‘Tensei.’
Reviving a Legend
The ‘Tensei’ project isn’t about building new cars; it’s about elevating existing ones. JAS Motorsport sources original first-generation NSX chassis and outfits them with bespoke carbon fiber bodies designed by Pininfarina. This approach preserves the spirit of the original while injecting it with modern performance and aesthetics.
A Familiar Yet Refreshed Design
Full exterior photos reveal a faithful recreation of the NSX’s iconic form. The car retains its signature silhouette, but with subtle yet significant upgrades. These include sleek LED lighting, contemporary wheels, and JAS Motorsport branding. Notably, the pop-up headlights – a defining feature of the original – appear to remain intact, much to the relief of enthusiasts.
Performance and Powertrain
Under the hood, the ‘Tensei’ retains the NSX’s original 3.0-liter V-6 engine. However, JAS Motorsport promises substantial enhancements to achieve “the highest levels of power, torque, and responsiveness.” The engine will be paired exclusively with a six-speed manual transmission, a nod to the purist driving experience the NSX was known for.
“Tensei will feature cutting-edge technology and advanced mechanics derived from the world of competition, in which JAS has achieved global recognition and success over the past 30 years.” – JAS Motorsport
Exclusivity and Price
Production of the ‘Tensei’ will be severely limited, ensuring exclusivity for buyers. Though specific performance figures and pricing remain undisclosed until next year, the restomod is expected to command a high six- or seven-figure price tag. Restomods of this caliber rarely come cheap, and the ‘Tensei’ is no exception.
The reborn NSX represents a fusion of nostalgia and modern engineering. By combining the iconic design of the original with cutting-edge performance upgrades, Pininfarina and JAS Motorsport have created a restomod that honors the past while embracing the future.
