There is much speculation that this will be
the successor to the current NSX. From Honda's statements, this is
apparently one of three designs that the company is considering for the
2006 NSX. If that is the case, we may see some other sports car
concepts shortly from Honda/Acura.
(from Honda Press Release) Acura's 300-plus horsepower HSC
(High-Performance Sports Concept) will make its domestic debut at the
North American International Auto Show in Detroit.
The HSC is a design study combining the ultimate in supercar performance
with the interior comfort and handling ease of a daily driver. It
features a lightweight body, a compact yet powerful engine and a
racing-inspired interior.
The High-Performance Sports Concept features a lightweight 3.5-liter V-6
engine located midship for optimum balance and superior handling.
Shifting is accomplished through a unique dial shifter located on the
center console or an F-1 style paddle shifter located on the steering
wheel.
The HSC features a 4-wheel double wishbone suspension with six-piston
caliper Brembo disc brakes on each wheel. Five-spoke forged aluminum
alloy racing wheels are shod with 245/35ZR19 tires in front and
295/30ZR20 tires in the rear.
The HSC body is composed of carbon fiber panels over an all-aluminum
unit body frame. Short overhangs and a 104.7-inch wheelbase maximize
handling and agility.
The cockpit is rounded and sleek for an aggressive look as well as
increased visibility. A clear glass engine cover, located behind the
cockpit, shows off the engine. The lower body boasts a low waistline,
rectangular air intakes on both sides, curvaceous fenders, scissor-style
doors and sharp lines that leave no doubt to the concept's sporty
nature.
The wedge-shaped front fascia includes large, lower air ducts,
projector-style HID headlamps and smooth lines for enhanced
aerodynamics. In the rear, high-illumination LEDs are incorporated into
the taillight housing for a visibility-enhancing three-dimensional
design. Dual exhaust tips are integrated into the bumper and a rearview
camera, located next to the taillights, transmits the view behind the
car to the driver via the navigation system tilt-up screen when the
concept shifts into reverse.
Inside, the concept features a race inspired cockpit with black nubuck
leather trim and anodized aluminum accents on the door panels, center
console, steering wheel and meter housings. Dual gauge clusters feature
a tachometer/shift meter on the left and an analog/digital speedometer
on the right. A thick, leather-wrapped performance steering wheel and
aluminum foot pedals offer increased road feedback and precise control.