A Rear-Wheel Drive Honda NSX Type R Could Be On The Way
While it certainly hasn’t been slated on the whole, it’s fair to say the long-awaited second-generation Honda NSX has experienced a fairly lukewarm reception from the world’s motoring press thus far. However, there may be a solution on the way for those left underwhelmed: an NSX Type R.
The old Type R NSXs were legendary machines, so it’s no surprise that Dynamic Development Leader Nick Robinson reckons Honda is incredibly keen to give the new car the R treatment. And it should be some car: Autocar reports that the removal of the front motors and associated batteries in an eventual Type R is a possibility, drastically cutting down the weight of the 150kg hybrid system and making the car rear-wheel drive.
With a kerb weight of 1725kg, putting the standard NSX on a diet seems like a rather good idea, and fancier materials would make the R even lighter. The publication quotes Robinson as saying “There are places weight could be cut out…We are Honda so cost [of materials] is a consideration, but for a limited edition? Why not?” It’s likely the turbocharged V6 engine’s output would be increased too, to make up for the power lost from the motor removal.
What do you think of the prospect of a lighter, rear-wheel drive only NSX? Would you have one over something like a Porsche 911 GT3 RS?
Growing up on a diet of World Rally Championship highlights and lengthy Gran Turismo 2 sessions, a life in cars was as good as inevitable for Matt.
Comments
Very interesting
If it only has a twin turbo v6 red and lightweight and simple it would be great
#notohybrid
I like this concept
If I remember correctly, this NSX does not have VTEC. So there is already one fairly simple addition to boost overall power. That plus the lack of weight would make for a good start
who doesn’t want an NSX Type R? The only BIG Problem is the Money xD
Does this mean no more hybrid!?!?
One defining thing about the new NSX is its instant throttle response, which is unique for a turbocharged engine. This is achieved by augmenting the electric motors with the main engine. The proposal for increasing the turbocharged motors output while removing the electric motors is a surefire way of losing that instant throttle response, presenting lag into the equation. How about, switching the front electric motors to the back and make it a complete rear-wheel drive? This would allow the weight distribution to be shifted to the rear and also allows the front wheels to do less work. Something like the McLaren P1 and LaFerrari.
sounds like the type R is going to be the NSX most people wanted in the first place.
Just add V-TEC
Please 7-Speed Gearbox 9-Speed is too many