Cars

Honda does another Type R to bid farewell to the original NSX

To cap the original NSX's remarkably long production run, Honda rolled out a new Type R variant in 2002. A stronger emphasis on aerodynamics was part of the package this time around.

Jon Wong

Jon Wong was a reviews editor for CNET Cars. He test drove and wrote about new cars and oversaw coverage of automotive accessories and garage gear. In his spare time, he enjoys track days, caring for his fleet of old Japanese cars and searching for the next one to add to his garage.

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Jon Wong

Jan. 2, 2017 5:00 a.m. PT

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Following a seven-year hiatus, the NSX-R returns as part of the freshening done to Honda's entire NSX lineup in 2002.

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Like the original, the second NSX-R features weight reduction efforts and a tracked-tuned suspension.

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In addition, the NSX-R gains new aerodynamic features that improve high-speed stability.

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Carbon fiber is used for the hood, front undertray, rear diffuser and rear spoiler.

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To cope with the additional downforce, the NSX-R's suspension needed to be hard-tuned.

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The Bridgestone Potenza RE070 tires were specially developed for the NSX-R.

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Brake upgrades include slotted rotors and more aggressive brake pads.

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A lower final drive gear ratio gives the NSX-R better acceleration performance.

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The forged BBS wheels are painted Championship White on the NSX-R.

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The interior gets a leather-wrapped Momo steering wheel, titanium shift knob and carbon-fiber bucket Recaro seats. Click through for a bunch more photos from Honda, and check out the article below for the full history of the Type R.