Important characteristics of a sports car include ''acceleration'', ''cornering", and "braking''. As a part of the concept of the NSX, development was aimed at reductions in both power-to-weight ratio and wheelbase-to-weight ratio in order to dramatically improve these vehicle dynamics. These parameters are particularly Important for the simultaneous achlevement of better acceleration and more expresslve steering response. As shown in Fig. 1, the aim was to raise vehicle dynamics of the NSX to a level higher than the curve on which previous sports cars' potentials are plotted (what we call the ''Milky Way'')
Next, each driver has a specific ability in terms of his/her driving skill. Therefore, Honda's new sports car had to be able to easily extract optimum performance at any driver skill level, regardless of the road surface conditions. Hence, it was decided that man-machlne interfacing (what Honda refers to as "human-fitting'' technology) must be included at a level beyond tnat conventionally conceived. This portion of the concept incorporates developments in driving position, visibibility and overall vehlcle operability.
The third element of concem was that of assuring high performance and excellent controllabllity on various road surfaces, from snow-covered roads to race tracks. Here again, the target was to optimize man-machine interfacing at a level higher than conventionally perceived, providing road condition adaptability to compensate for hurman operational error.
Tha adoption of aluminum alloy deducted approximately 140kg from the body weight itself as compared to conventional steel, giving a weight reduction of some 40%. Overall vehicle weight reduction equals 200kg when the chassis is included. Thus the target value indicated in Fig 2 was ach\ieved, and balance was maintained among the three elements.
As a result of various studies, it was decided to use a mid-engine rear-wheel drive (MR) layout for the maximum exploitation of the potential dynamics. This setup provides great advantages: improved overall performance through appropriate weight distribution over the wheels, full utilization of driving force, reduced yawing moment of inertia and lowered center of gravity, with consequently enhanced handling stability and braking performance.
Furthermore from the viewpoint of achieving light weight and compact dimensions while providing the ultimate in vehicle dynamics, a V-6 engine and transmission were combined in line and transversely mounted in the frame.
Taking the weight distribution change between empty and full- tank conditions and collision resistance into consideration, the fuel tank is locatod in a space between the engine and driver, wlth bulkheads separatlng the three. It has a capaclty of 70- liters to provide the car with an adequate distance range.
To improve handling and stability and provide a spacious area for the driver, the front wheels have been moved forward on the frame the their diameter reduced.
In spite of a low hip point, open forward visibility was assured by lowering the hood line. This low profile design includes the adoption of a small longitudinally- mounted air conditioner and a folded space-saver spare tire. Visibility in all other directions is provided through the adoption of a jet-fighter- canopy-styled passenger compartment, which also enhanances the car's aerodynamic properties.