JDM Acura models built specifically for Japan consistently receive performance upgrades over US counterparts. JDM fans covet these enhanced variants offering sharper reflexes along with unique styles. Let’s examine some of Acura’s most exciting Japan-only offerings.
JDM Acura NSX Type S
The JDM NSX Type S turned up the supercar’s potency even further. Extensive use of carbon fiber reduced weight to under 3,000 pounds. The 3.2-liter V6 gained more boost for nearly 290hp.
Larger wheels wrapped in sticky rubber provided tenacious grip. Firmer suspension calibrations and limited-slip differential sharpened transient response. Inside, titanium shift paddles enabled rapid-fire gear changes.
The Type S distilled the NSX formula down to its intense essence. It became one of the purest supercar experiences available thanks to obsessive focus on performance.
Integra Type R
The JDM DC2 Integra Type R cemented itself as a legend for taking performance to the extreme. It remains one of the most thrilling front-wheel-drive cars ever engineered.
The jewel was the high-revving naturally aspirated 1.8-liter VTEC 4-cylinder, making over 200 horsepower. This free-spinning motor hit lift at a stratospheric 9,000 rpm. Short gearing kept it on boil.
The Type R also received weight reduction and suspension upgrades, lowering it closer to the pavement. The results were scalpel-sharp turn-in and incredible grip. This Integra set benchmarks that exceed most modern front-drivers.
RSX Type S
The JDM RSX inherited the Integra Type R formula with enthusiasts in mind. It shared the high-winding i-VTEC motor but in 2.0-liter form. Output climbed to over 200hp while keeping the 8,800rpm redline.
Nimble handling continued, along with an advanced limited-slip differential. Aerodynamic improvements generated actual downforce for the first time in a mass-market vehicle.
Though sold as a Honda overseas, the JDM RSX carried the Acura badge. For purists, it represents the ultimate evolution of Acura’s high-revving DNA.
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CL Type S
During the 2000s, Acura also introduced JDM variants of its midsize CL coupe, dubbing them “Type S” models. These versions turned up the CL’s refinement and power for sportier driving.
The Type S models received a 3.2-liter V6 pushing 300hp along with tweaked suspension calibrations. Weight reducing aluminum replaced steel in the hood and wheels.
Inside, the CL Type S exuded luxury with LED lighting, premium sound, and GPS navigation – hints of Acura’s future direction. The brand balanced sport and luxury for the first time.
Legend Coupe
Acura’s flagship full-size Legend Coupe always offered enhanced performance in Japan. JDM models gained Brembo brakes, a rear spoiler, torque-sensing limited-slip, and handling refinements.
Underhood, the 3.5-liter V6 produced over 300hp. The slick-shifting 5-speed auto had performance ratios optimized for acceleration. Even this luxurious coupe became a thrill ride in JDM form.
JDM Acura Pushing Boundaries in Japan
Engineering more intense performance models for Japan allowed Acura to take risks. The brand explored technologies that later saw widespread integration. Many innovations first appeared on JDM-exclusive models.
Acura built upon a tradition of offering enthusiasts specialized variants in its home market. To this day, JDM models stand apart with their extremes. Acura pushes boundaries best by leveraging Japanese owners’ appetite for intensity.
