AutoArt 1:18 2003 Honda NSX JGTC Test Car #0

Major rule changes for the 2003 season necessitated a major redesign in the JGTC race cars. These changes included unrestricted suspension design and engine orientation made possible by mandated pipe-framed steel tubing structurals. Also mandated was the flat bottom concept that covered all chassis components allowing for compression just behind the front wheels and release and directing of the airflow by rear diffusers. Theoretically, it was to decrease drag and enhance downforce, but suceeded only in creating new engineering headaches. Design of engine, chassis and suspension seemed virtually unrestricted save for horsepower and weight, with the field being equalized by restrictor plates and weight penalties.

The companies of Mugen and DOME were responsible for most of this major redesign. Mugen (which means "without limits") Motorsports or M-TEC Co is an engine tuning and performance parts manufacturer founded by the son of the founder of Honda. DOME (in characters means "a child's dream") is a builder of race cars in both GT and Formula classes. This combination supported and supplied five JGTC teams. This NSX model represents the test car for the Autobacs team. Autobacs is an international automotive supply chain based in Japan.

I must say I'm beginning to understand AUTOart's sealed body shell format for these supersophisticated race cars. I have never encountered so much contradictory information on the specs. The best I can gather is that the engine was either a V6 or a V8, probably normally aspirated, that generated between 480 and 500 hp (the limit for the GT500 class) connected by a 6-speed Hewland sequential transmission. Two "definitive sources" have the engine either horizontal or longitudinally mounted and if it was a longitudinal V6, then it was reverse mounted. The actual framing structure and suspension is anyone's guess. I have a feeling that the flat bottom restriction ruling may have been a modeling godsend if access to these cars is as limited as the information available.

This AUTOart model of the #0 test car certainly gives you everything it advertises. Crisp thin panel castings replicate all the fine louvers, intakes, creases, panel lines and rivets. The light groups and badging are jewel-like. The intererior simulates the heavy use of carbon fiber. The 5-pt Takata harnesses, gauge clusters, internal bracing and all the other accessories are easily viewed through the crystal clear windscreen. The side windows with their complex curves, louvers and intake vents are a bit too thick to prevent optical distortion however. The body is a smooth ice box white with matte black roof and engine hatch covers. Adding a little color are the green 6-spoke Volk Racing forged mag wheels that allow the use of huge vented Alcon disc brakes. The wheels are shod with wide white-lettered Bridgestone Potenza racing slicks that have been scuffed to look extra sticky.

To me the NSX is the sexiest Japanese design since the Toyota 2000GT and this steroidal GT race variant is one mean-looking machine. I'm delighted to have this well crafted model in my stable.

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