Engineering Innovations On 1996 Acura NSX, NSX-T

Body

Aluminum Unit-Body Construction

  • World's first aluminum production car
  • Unit body weighs only 462 lbs - 40% less than steel
  • Incorporates unique high-strength extruded-aluminum side sills
  • Unique heat treatment ensures surface hardness
  • Highly corrosion resistant
  • High torsnioal and bending rigidity

Cabin Forward/Long-Tail Design

  • Provides best visibility in class - 312 degrees
  • Significantly improves aerodynamic balance
  • Provides optimum occupant and component layout
  • NSX-T features an easily removable roof panel for open-air driving

Powertrain

VTEC System

  • First application in the U.S.
  • Unique Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC)
  • Uses two different cam profiles to improve low-end torque and high-end power
  • Boosts engine performance to 90 hp per liter

Variable Volume Induction System

  • Improves power and torque by optimizing air induction at all rpm

Direct Ignition

  • Eliminates distributor
  • Each plug has own ignition coil similar to race engine
  • Delivers stable high voltage to spark plugs

Titanium Connecting Rods

  • World's first use in a production car
  • Stronger than steel and lightweight - saves 190 grams
  • Reduces reciprocating mass for high rpm engine operation

Twin-Disc Clutch

  • Two smaller-diameter friction discs replace large, heavier single disc
  • Better design for high engine output

Transmission

  • Refined transmission gears for quieter operation
  • Formula One-inspried SportShift system for automatic transmission models allows for fully automatic or manual shift operation

Torque Control Differential & Torque Reactive Differential

  • Unique limited slip differential designs
  • Improves stability in crosswinds

Chassis

All-Aluminum Suspension

  • Aluminum 4-wheel double-wishbone design
  • Forge-aluminum suspension arms for strength and low unsprung weight
  • Front suspension utilizes unique compliance pivot for ideal suspension geometry and ride quality
  • 44 lbs (20 kilograms) lighter than steel

Four-Channel Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS)

  • First use in U.S.
  • Provides more precise independent braking control over each wheel

Traction Control System

  • Enhances performance over wide range of conditions rather than just low friction surfaces
  • System can be shut off manually by driver
  • Addition of drive-by-wire throttle control to TCS enhances deceleration stability

Electric Power-Assisted Steering

  • First of its kind on American market
  • Electric variable power-assist uses electric motor rather than hydraulics to reduce steering effort
  • Reduced weight
  • Does not take power away from engine to operate hydraulic pump

Custom-Designed Tires and Wheels

  • Specially developed wheels and tires: Front 215/45ZR 16 tires x 7 JJ forged alloy wheels; Rear: 245/40ZR 17 tires on 17 x 8.5 JJ forged alloy wheels
  • Unindirectional tires specific to each corner of the car
  • Different compounds used front and rear
  • Lightweight, forged, aluminum-alloy wheels reduce unsprung weight by 19.8 lbs (9kg) over cast wheels

Drive-By-Wire Electronic Throttle System

  • Improves throttle response and acceleration feel
  • Improves performance of automatic cruise control and traction control system

Interior

Dual Air Bags plus Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners Provide Supplemental Restraint System

  • Compact air bag design allows use in small steering wheel space
  • Electrical connectors are gold-plated to enhance conductivity and provide corrosion protection and reliability
  • Automatic seat belt tensioners help to hold occupants in place

Aluminum Seat Frame

  • First for a production car
  • Entire seat frame made of lightweight stamped aluminum
  • Has 1/3 fewer parts than steel seat
  • Seat rails made from aluminum extrusions