The first generation Honda NSX is a legendary supercar. It was created at the end of the eighties and is considered the first really practical supercar, with which living daily would not be a problem. Until 2005, the Honda NSX was Honda’s sportiest vehicle, a witness that the Honda Civic Type R picked up until the arrival of a second-generation hybrid NSX. In this article we will answer a single question: Is a 320 hp Honda Civic Type R capable of standing up to a Honda NSX on the circuit?
The person in charge of finding out is someone who knows how to drive for a while: the British driver Jason Plato, who has recorded an interesting test with both cars for the Fifth Gear YouTube channel. The Castle Combe circuit has been the scene chosen for the battle. on paper, the Honda Civic Type R has the upper hand: it is 40 kilos lighter and 40 hp more powerful than the NSX. However, it does not have the same balance in its weight distribution and the 0 to 100 km/h of the NSX is faster, with 5.5 seconds, compared to 5.8 of the Civic.
Advances in brakes and suspension make the difference in favor of the Civic.
The NSX’s dynamic balance is praised by Plato, as is the sound of its engine, steering and suspension, firm without being uncomfortable. By contrast, even on a well-surfaced track, the Civic Type R is rock-hard, but its engine stretches surprisingly for a turbocharged engine, its shifting feels fantastic, and its acceleration is impressive. At the end of the fast lap, oddly enough, at 1.17.5, a time three seconds less than the supercar mid-engine.
Yes, a modern sports compact is faster than a not-so-classic supercar. We live exciting times.
Photos of the Honda Civic Type R
