The 1991 Acura NSX represented a paradigm shift in supercar design and engineering, challenging established European benchmarks with its innovative all-aluminum construction, mid-engine layout, and driver-focused ergonomics. It was positioned as an accessible yet uncompromising exotic, appealing to discerning enthusiasts seeking exceptional performance without the extreme maintenance demands of its rivals.
Competitive Analysis
Competitive Analysis:
Competed directly with high-performance sports cars such as the Porsche 911, Ferrari 348, Lotus Esprit, and Chevrolet Corvette ZR-1. Differentiated itself through its reliable Honda V6 powertrain, daily drivability, advanced (for its time) aluminum monocoque chassis, and superior build quality.
Key Features
Key Features:
Mid-engine, rear-wheel-drive layout; Naturally aspirated 3.0L V6 engine (C30A); All-aluminum monocoque chassis and body panels; Advanced Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC); Forged aluminum suspension components; Four-wheel Anti-lock Braking System (ABS); Driver-centric cockpit design; Legendary Honda reliability.
Engine Mechanical, Engine Control System (PGM-FI), Fuel System, Ignition System, Cooling System, Lubrication System, Exhaust System, Transmission (Manual 5-speed), Clutch, Driveshafts, Differential, Suspension (Front & Rear Double Wishbone), Steering (Power Rack & Pinion), Brakes (Front/Rear Discs, ABS), Electrical System (Charging, Starting, Lighting, Ignition, ECU, Sensors, Actuators), HVAC System, Body and Frame, Exterior Trim, Interior Trim, SRS Airbag System (if equipped)
Procedures Included
Procedures Included:
Routine Maintenance, Scheduled Inspections, Engine Tune-up, Valve Adjustment, Timing Belt Replacement, Piston and Ring Installation, Cylinder Head Removal/Installation, Transmission Overhaul, Clutch Replacement, Brake Pad/Rotor Replacement, Suspension Component Replacement, Steering Gearbox Repair, Electrical Component Testing and Replacement, Diagnostic Trouble Code (DTC) Retrieval and Interpretation, SRS System Diagnosis, Air Conditioning System Service, Body Panel Alignment, Body Component Repair
Technical Depth
Technical Depth:
Comprehensive diagnostics, detailed component-level repair procedures, complete overhaul instructions, electrical troubleshooting flowcharts, torque specifications for all fasteners, maintenance schedules, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs) and their meaning, wiring diagrams for all systems, exploded views of components, specifications and tolerances for all critical parts.
📊 Manual Specifications
File Format
File Format:
Searchable PDF, optimized for digital viewing and printing.
Print Quality
Print Quality:
High-resolution scans of original factory documentation, ensuring clarity of text and diagrams.
Binding Type
Binding Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
Paper Type
Paper Type:
N/A (Digital Format)
⚙️ Engine Specifications
Primary Engine
Primary Engine:
C30A1
Engine Type
Engine Type:
90-degree V6, Mid-engine, Longitudinal Mounting
Displacement
Displacement:
3.0 liters (2977 cc)
Bore X Stroke
Bore X Stroke:
85.0 mm x 85.0 mm
Compression Ratio
Compression Ratio:
10.2:1
Valvetrain
Valvetrain:
DOHC 4 valves per cylinder with VTEC
Horsepower
Horsepower:
270 hp @ 7100 rpm
Torque
Torque:
210 lb-ft @ 5300 rpm
Fuel System
Fuel System:
Electronic Fuel Injection (PGM-FI) with Sequential Port Injection
Ignition System
Ignition System:
Distributorless Ignition System (DIS) with Coil-on-Plug
Engine Cooling
Engine Cooling:
Water-cooled, pressurized system with electric fan
Engine Oil Capacity
Engine Oil Capacity:
5.7 US quarts (5.4 Liters) with filter
Engine Oil Specification
Engine Oil Specification:
API SG or SH, SAE 5W-30 or 10W-30 viscosity recommended
Hydraulically operated, dry single-plate diaphragm spring
📐 Dimensions
Exterior Length
Exterior Length:
174.0 inches (4420 mm)
Exterior Width
Exterior Width:
81.2 inches (2062 mm)
Exterior Height
Exterior Height:
44.1 inches (1120 mm)
Wheelbase
Wheelbase:
101.4 inches (2575 mm)
Front Track
Front Track:
59.1 inches (1500 mm)
Rear Track
Rear Track:
60.4 inches (1535 mm)
Ground Clearance
Ground Clearance:
5.1 inches (130 mm)
Curb Weight
Curb Weight:
3,105 lbs (1408 kg)
Front Brakes
Front Brakes:
11.8-inch ventilated discs with 2-piston calipers
Rear Brakes
Rear Brakes:
11.1-inch ventilated discs with single-piston calipers
Wheel Size
Wheel Size:
16-inch front, 17-inch rear
Tire Size Front
Tire Size Front:
205/50ZR16
Tire Size Rear
Tire Size Rear:
225/50ZR16 (Later models/specifications may vary slightly)
Wheel Bolt Pattern
Wheel Bolt Pattern:
5 x 114.3 mm (5 x 4.5 inches)
🛡️ Safety Features
Ratings
Ratings:
NHTSA: Not officially rated for this era, but design incorporated advanced safety features.
Active Features
Active Features:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS), Traction Control System (TCS) (introduced on later models, not on 1991 US models), High-performance brake system, Advanced suspension geometry for stability.
Passive Features
Passive Features:
Energy-absorbing crumple zones (front and rear), Side-impact protection beams, Reinforced cockpit structure, Driver and passenger airbags (introduced later, not standard on 1991), Three-point seatbelts with pretensioners.
💡 Technology Features
Infotainment
Infotainment:
Factory AM/FM stereo with cassette player, optional CD player. Analog gauges with digital odometer and trip computer. Basic climate control system.
Driver Assistance
Driver Assistance:
Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) is the primary driver assistance feature. No electronic stability control or adaptive cruise control available on this model.
Connectivity
Connectivity:
No integrated Bluetooth or USB connectivity. Original systems are analog.
Lighting System
Lighting System:
Halogen headlights with pop-up mechanism, incandescent front and rear turn signals and brake lights.
🔧 Maintenance
Service Intervals General
Service Intervals General:
Refer to the manual for specific intervals based on mileage and time. General recommendations include: Oil and filter change every 5,000-7,500 miles or 6 months. Tire rotation every 5,000 miles. Brake fluid flush every 2 years. Coolant flush every 2 years. Timing belt inspection every 30,000 miles, replacement every 60,000 miles/5 years.
Fluid Specifications Coolant
Fluid Specifications Coolant:
Honda All-Season Antifreeze/Coolant (Type 2) or equivalent, mixed 50/50 with distilled water.
Fluid Specifications Power Steering
Fluid Specifications Power Steering:
Honda Genuine Power Steering Fluid or equivalent DEXRON II/III ATF
Fluid Specifications Brake
Fluid Specifications Brake:
DOT 3 or DOT 4 (preferred) brake fluid
Known Issues Common
Known Issues Common:
Timing belt wear/failure (critical), piston ring wear leading to oil consumption, clutch slave cylinder leaks, headlight motor failure, minor electrical gremlins, suspension compliance bushing wear. This manual provides detailed diagnosis and repair for these potential issues.
Catalytic Converter Replacement
Catalytic Converter Replacement:
Check manufacturer recommendations and local regulations. Replacement typically occurs due to performance degradation or failure as indicated by diagnostic systems.
Cabin Air Filter
Cabin Air Filter:
Not equipped on 1991 model.
📚 Vehicle History
Brand Heritage
Brand Heritage:
Acura, Honda's luxury division established in 1986, aimed to create a new benchmark in automotive engineering and performance. The NSX was conceived as a halo vehicle to showcase Honda's technological prowess and commitment to driver satisfaction.
Model Evolution
Model Evolution:
The 1991 NSX, codenamed NA1, was the inaugural model of the first generation. It featured the 3.0L V6 engine and a 5-speed manual transmission. Subsequent revisions included a larger 3.2L engine (NA2) in 1995, an optional automatic transmission, and various cosmetic and aerodynamic updates throughout its production run until 2005.
Production
Production:
First generation NSX (NA1/NA2) production: 1990-2005. 1991 model year production: ~1,224 units globally (exact figures vary by region).
Manufacturing Location
Manufacturing Location:
Takanezawa Plant, Tochigi, Japan
🏆 Awards & Recognition
Recognitions
Recognitions:
Consistently ranked among the best sports cars of its era by automotive publications like Car and Driver, MotorTrend, and Road & Track. Celebrated for its engineering, handling, and everyday usability, earning numerous 'Import Car of the Year' and 'Best Sports Car' accolades.
Ratings
Ratings:
Praised for its exceptional handling balance, responsive steering, and exhilarating performance. Often cited as a benchmark for driver engagement and technological innovation.
Certifications
Certifications:
Not applicable in the context of third-party certifications for model year, but represents Honda's internal quality and engineering standards.
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