Effectively earlier than the NSX, Honda had a fantastic wedge-shaped idea referred to as the HP-X—the model’s first fashionable idea automotive. Designed by Pininfarina, the HP-X debuted on the 1984 Turin Motor Present and previewed a radical, ultra-aerodynamic sports activities automotive.
The HP-X had a 2.0-liter V-6 engine derived from Honda’s Method 2 race automotive, and employed kevlar and carbon fiber to maintain issues mild. It additionally used “floor results” for the primary time and had a driver-controlled air brake. Sadly, the HP-X by no means noticed the sunshine of day; The NSX debuted about 5 years later, and the remainder is historical past.
Honda
However at this yr’s Pebble Seashore Concours d’Class, Honda is dusting off its 40-year-old idea automotive and competing on the principle stage. The absolutely restored Honda HP-X would be the first Japanese automotive on the principle occasion area in over 50 years. It should compete within the obscure “Wedge-Formed Idea and Prototypes Class.”
Honda saved the HP-X as authentic as attainable all through its restoration. It has the identical two-tone white-and-navy-blue paint job with crimson accents from 1984, a red-and-white suede inside with a button-heavy heart stack—and no doorways. The unique used a single-piece Perspex acrylic cover with a fighter-jet-inspired hatch revealing a two-seat format, and that is nonetheless true right here.
“The Honda HP-X Idea was the star of the 1984 Turin Auto Present, showcasing components of engineering excellence and cutting-edge design, with excessive wedge-shape styling that continues to encourage future generations of automotive designers and engineers,” mentioned Acura Design Govt Dave Marek.
“The forward-thinking HP-X had an plain impression on the trade, highlighting our dedication to pushing the boundaries of what’s attainable in automotive design.”
The Pebble Seashore Concours d’Class takes place on Sunday, August 18, 2024.
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