Chassis No. NA1-1200106

Upon its release in 1990, the Honda NSX quickly established itself as the benchmark for the mid-engine sports car segment. Its blend of performance and everyday usability earned widespread acclaim, with Car and Driver calling it "the most precise and attuned mid-engined machine we've ever driven." Yet for some enthusiasts in Japan, the standard NSX didn't go far enough. They craved a more focused machine-one that prioritized track performance over daily comfort.

Honda answered that call in 1992 with the NA1 generation NSX-R: a stripped-down, track-optimized version of the NSX, built exclusively for the Japanese market until 1995. In pursuit of performance, Honda removed virtually all creature comforts-air conditioning, airbags, radio, spare tire, traction control, and sound deadening-all sacrificed to save weight and sharpen the driving experience. Additional measures included lightweight carbon-Kevlar Recaro bucket seats and forged Enkei alloy wheels, shedding around 120 kilograms (265 pounds) from the curb weight.

Underneath, the NSX-R received a meticulously blueprinted and balanced version of the 3.0-liter V6 engine. Though officially rated at 276 horsepower due to Japan's manufacturers' gentleman's agreement, it was widely believed to produce closer to 290. Handling was similarly enhanced with stiffer springs and dampers, a larger diameter front sway bar, and a locking limited-slip differential, transforming the NSX into a precise, aggressive machine that lived for the racetrack.

Only 483 examples of the NSX-R were produced, all right-hand drive and identifiable by a unique ten-character chassis code. Chassis number NA1-1200106-serial R-0207-is one such example. Finished in Championship White, it rides on matching 16-inch front and 17-inch rear Enkei seven-spoke wheels, while subtle red Honda badges hint at its enhanced capabilities.

Inside, the transformation continues. Black Alcantara trimmed Recaro seats set performance-oriented tone, along with the three-spoke non-airbag MOMO steering wheel. Other interior highlights include Alcantara-lined door panels and dashboard, and a titanium shift knob. The car deviates slightly from the ultimate in weight savings with the now highly sought-after air conditioning and a stereo added back to this car.

The car's history file shows its first registration on 14 April 1993 in Nihama City. Staying in the Ehime Prefecture, it later moved to Matsuyama City in December 1996, where it remained for nearly 14 years with its second caretaker. The car was then acquired by a Honda dealership in Takamatsu City in November 2010. In January 2011, it passed to a private owner in Kobe City with just 43,625 kilometers (27,048 miles). It was last registered in Japan in the Ora District of Gunma Prefecture in January 2025 before being imported to the U.S. shortly after.

Today, well-preserved NSX-Rs like this example remain highly sought after by collectors due to their raw, unfiltered dynamics and rarity. The presence of optional air conditioning and a Bose stereo only enhances usability, making this a particularly desirable example of one of the most exclusive variants to emerge from the 1990s Japanese performance car wars. As a result, the NSX-R is a true "must-have" for any collection focused on the rarest JDM performance icons.