Body
Aluminum Unit-Body Construction
- World's first mass produced all-aluminum body
- 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 torsional and bending rigidity
Cabin-Forward/Long-Tail Design
- Best-in-dass visibility - 312 degrees
- Significantly improves aerodynamic balance
- Provides optimum occupant and component layout
- NSX-T features and easily removable roof panel for open-air driving
Powertrain
VTEC System
- First application in 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 more than 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 its own ignition coil, similar to a racing engine
- Delivers stable high voltage to spark plugs
Titanium Connecting Rods
- World's first use in a production car
- Stronger than steel, lightweight - saves 190 grams
- Reduces reciprocating mass for high-rpm engine operation
Transmission
- All-new compact, lightweight, close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission
- Formula One-inspired SportShift system for automatic transmission models allows for fully automatic or manual shift operation
Torque Control Differential and Torque Reactive Differential
- Unique limited slip differential designs
- Improves stability in crosswinds
Chassis
All-Aluminum Suspension
- Aluminum 4-wheel double-wishbone design
- Forged-aluminum suspension arms for strength, low unsprung weight
- Front suspension utilizes unique compliance pivot for ideal suspension geometry and ride quality
- 44lbs (20 kg), 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
- Drive-by-wire throttle control enhances Tes 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, 16 x 7 JJ forged alloy wheels; Rear - 245/ 40ZR 17 tires, 17 x 8.5 JJ forged alloy wheels
- Unidirectional tires specific to each comer of the car
- Different compounds used front and rear
- Lightweight, forged aluminum-alloy wheels reduce unsprung weight by 19.81bs (9 kg) 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, Automatic Seat Belt Tensioners (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 one-third fewer parts than steel seat
- Seat rails made from aluminum extrusions
Highly Efficient, Heat-Absorbing Green Glass
- Helps keep the effects of solar loading on interior temperatures at a minimum in hot weather