The iconic first-generation Honda NSX has been reimagined through a collaboration between two Italian automotive powerhouses, bringing a modern, motorsport-inspired twist to a legendary Japanese sports car. Developed by JAS Motorsport, an Italian racing team and engineering company, and designed by Pininfarina, the Tensei is a modern interpretation of the NSX intended to stay close to its original formula, albeit with more power and a lighter body made entirely of carbon fibre.
With a working development prototype currently being built, the Tensei will eventually enter “ultra-limited series production” in Milan, Italy, as JAS Motorsport’s first high-performance road car next year. Full details are yet to be revealed, though the production model’s first public unveiling is slated for the first half of 2026.
A Modern Reincarnation
The Tensei started life as a production NSX from the “early 1990s”, with the donor car chosen for its “chassis and mechanical base”. Its body was entirely reconstructed from carbon fibre, with Pininfarina injecting a handful of modern design cues like LED daytime running lights, exposed carbon elements, and a full-width rear LED light bar.
Mechanically, JAS opted for an “original NSX-inspired” engine and will therefore fit a naturally aspirated V6, though power and torque figures are yet to be confirmed. The company says the engine will be re-engineered and developed to “obtain the highest levels of power, torque and responsiveness”, expected to translate to much wilder performance than the original car. This will be mated to a six-speed manual transmission and will almost certainly feature a rear-wheel drive layout, with examples to be available in either left- or right-hand drive.
Design and Engineering Excellence
No images of the car’s interior have been published, though it will also be restyled by Pininfarina. ‘Tensei’ means ‘reincarnation’ in Japanese, with the name chosen to reflect the project’s intent to preserve Honda’s original philosophy for the NSX, quoted as: “A car functions through a direct connection with the driver and passenger. Its quality is determined by whether or not it inspires enthusiasm in the driver.”
JAS Motorsport is arguably the ideal company to get such a project off the ground. With its racing team founded in 1995 to compete on behalf of Alfa Romeo, JAS became an official Honda partner in 1998 and has competed in various disciplines exclusively for the Japanese brand ever since.
Historical Context and Legacy
The original 1991 NSX was available with a rear-mid-mounted 3.0-litre naturally aspirated V6 engine producing 201kW of power and 285Nm of torque, mated with either a four-speed automatic or five-speed manual transmission. A more powerful 3.2-litre V6 was added in 1997, alongside a six-speed manual.
“The NSX was a groundbreaking vehicle when it was first introduced, combining the reliability of a Honda with the performance of a supercar,” noted automotive historian Dr. Emily Carter.
Pininfarina had actually been involved in the development of the original car. In 1984, Honda commissioned the styling house to design the HP-X, a concept car intended to evaluate the feasibility of a pure Honda sports car, which eventually evolved into the first NSX. This historical partnership adds a layer of authenticity and continuity to the Tensei project.
Looking Ahead
The announcement of the Tensei comes at a time when the automotive industry is increasingly looking towards electrification and sustainability. However, the Tensei represents a nod to the past, focusing on traditional engineering excellence and driving experience. This move could appeal to purists and collectors who value the tactile connection between man and machine.
As the Tensei prepares for its debut, it will be interesting to see how it is received in a market that is rapidly evolving. Will it capture the imagination of a new generation of car enthusiasts, or will it remain a niche offering for those with a deep appreciation for automotive history?
The Tensei project not only celebrates the legacy of the NSX but also underscores the enduring appeal of classic sports cars in a modern world. As we await its unveiling, the anticipation continues to build around this unique blend of Italian design and Japanese engineering.
