In 1989, Honda introduced a mid-engine sports car, the Honda NSX-R, with a balance between raw performance and daily driveability. However, two years later for customers who wanted a no-compromise racing experience, the Japanese manufacturer introduced a more powerful limited version of this model, the Honda NSX-R. Only 483 examples were produced and one of them, the 1996 Honda NSX-R is for sale.

In early March, the car was auctioned but failed to reach the asking price of $450,000. Some will say that the owner is asking too much, perhaps he is if we consider that examples like this are estimated at $80,000 – $120,000.

The car is finished in Championship white and is one of the best preserved examples of this model. The weight of 1229 kg (2,710 pounds) was achieved by removing the audio and air conditioning systems, traction control, spare tire, and even some of the electrical system.

This NSX-R is equipped with custom Recaro racing seats, aluminum brackets to further stiffen the chassis, Enkei lightweight forged aluminum wheels, a competition-oriented suspension system with a stiffer front wishbone, suspension bushings, coil springs and dampers.

When it comes to the powertrain, under the hood is a 3.2-liter naturally aspirated V6 engine with a balanced crankshaft assembly and a revised final drive ratio. Power is rated at 294 hp (216 kW) and 224 lb-ft (304 Nm) of torque. Power is sent to the rear wheels via a 6-speed manual gearbox.

The car is in excellent condition and still has the factory plastic covering the door sills. The six-digit odometer shows only 18,320 km (~11,496 miles). Comes with Japanese service records from new, owner’s manual and other books, keys, and has undergone recent servicing in preparation for sale.

Source: RM Sotheby’s

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