A no-holds-barred variant of the famed NSX supercar that maximized performance above all other considerations, the NSX-R was lightened via numerous traditional methods, including deletion of sound deadening, the audio and air conditioning systems, traction control, spare tire, and even some of the electrical system, and fitment of custom Recaro racing seats and Enkei lightweight forged aluminum wheels. Altogether, some 265 pounds were stripped away, for a total curb weight of 2,710 pounds.

Further, additional aluminum brackets were installed under the front battery tray and ahead of the front radiator to further stiffen the chassis, which was mounted with a competition-oriented suspension system featuring a stiffer front sway bar, suspension bushings, coil springs, and dampers, to prevent sudden oversteer during high-speed cornering on the track. The engine was also fitted with a blueprinted, balanced crankshaft assembly, using techniques from Honda’s racing car engine assembly processes; the final drive ratio was revised to aid in quicker gear changes, and a higher locking limited slip differential installed. The result was a highly capable, track-oriented weapon, able to keep up with the best traditional supercars of the period while remaining financially accessible to mere mortals and carrying Honda’s legendary reliability.

Some 483 examples of the “ultimate NSX” were produced between 1992 and 1996, exclusively for the Japanese domestic market. Understandably they are now considered the most sought-after of the first-generation NSXs and have become hotly collectible among JDM supercar enthusiasts.

The NSX-R offered here, finished in Championship White over Red interior, was recently imported from its home country, and remains in impeccable overall condition with fewer than 18,500 kilometers (~11,496 miles) at the time of cataloguing. Its originality is impressive to behold, with the factory plastic still covering the door sills! Further, the car is accompanied by everything that one expects to find with such a prime example, including Japanese service records from new, owner’s manual and other books, and keys, and has undergone recent servicing in preparation for sale.

This is undoubtedly one of the finest examples of this model, scarcely available on American shores but well-equipped to enthrall its new owner on either side of the Pacific.