After the all-new NSX has been finally released after years of development, it finally seems that Acura’s plans are starting to go a lot smoother. For starters, a few months ago the all new 2017 Acura NSX GT3 has been showcased. Like its name suggests, this is the racing version of the regular NSX. So far they haven’t said a thing about a production model but considering other manufacturers did release road versions eventually, we might see in the future a GT3 NSX for the road. Until then though the actual racing version of the car will have to do.
THE CHASSIS
Probably one of the most interesting parts of the NSX is the chassis of the car. Why? Well, unlike many of its competitors, the NSX uses an all-aluminum chassis and body. This rather interesting choice means that the car is usually heavier than its competitors. However, the aluminum chassis does have its perks even though it is heavier. For starters, it is cheaper and also easier to manufacture. The GT3 version of the car will carry on with it. However, because the GT3 regulations mean that the car has to be between 1,200 and 1,300 kilograms, the NSX GT3 shed all of its hybrid powertrains.
2017 ACURA NSX GT3 ENGINE
Even though the three electric motors on the 2017 Acura NSX GT3 are now gone, the car will certainly offer more power. This is because it will have to meet a specific power to weight ratio. While the official output is still unknown, the car might get closer to 600 horsepower with a small boost to its engine. This is the same twin-turbocharged 3.5 liter V6 as before. However, while it previously had 500 horsepower, it will definitely be tweaked for race use. The 9-speed automatic gearbox is also gone from the GT3 racing car. In its place, there is an all new 6 speed sequential which should be faster, lighter and quite a bit more durable. Like you would expect from a racing car, its entire cooling system has been revised in order to withstand the stress of a race. Also, because the car no longer has the hybrid system, it no longer is all wheel drive. Instead, it will only be rear wheel drive for racing which is still fine considering it will mostly run on slicks.
EXTERIOR DESIGN
The new 2017 Acura NSX GT3 manages to capture the essence of the regular NSX while adding its own character to the mix. The basic body is the same aluminum construction as the road-going car. This is mostly because it is an FIA GT3 requirement. However, both in the front and at the back it features quite a few modifications. For starters, the car offers a larger front splitter, bigger air intakes, and small carbon fiber wings on the sides. At the back, there is a massive carbon fiber wing, a large diffuser, a new titanium exhaust system which should save quite a bit of weight. Both the wing and its diffuser are fully adjustable. Also as a requirement, it features center locking wheels and even air-jacks for fast pit-stops.
THE INTERIOR, OR LACK OF IT
That’s right because this is a racing car, there is not much interior to talk about. All the usual leather, comfortable seats or even large LCD screen are gone. Instead, most of the dashboard has been blanked by carbon fiber inserts. Also, the steering wheel now performs most of the functions on the car. Also, it only has one racing seat with a racing harness. Acura also installed a roll cage which should help the driver survive in the eventuality of a high-speed crash. Like with most of the GT3 cars, a water tank is also going to be available in certain races to keep the drivers hydrated.
2017 Acura NSX GT3
Summary
That’s right because this is a racing car, there is not much interior to talk about. All the usual leather, comfortable seats or even large LCD screen are gone. Instead, most of the dashboard has been blanked by carbon fiber inserts. Also, the steering wheel now performs most of the functions on the car.
Price: $168,400
Release date: 2016
Model: 2017 Acura NSX GT3
Engine: 3.5-liter twin-turbocharged V6