The Honda NSX Gets a Breathtaking Italian Restomod Makeover
Pininfarina Elegantly Modernizes the Original NSX Design.
The Acura (or Honda, depending on the market) NSX remains one of the most celebrated performance icons of the 1990s, proving that Japan could build a world-class sports car capable of challenging Europe’s best. Produced from 1991 to 2006—with a notable 2002 facelift that swapped its pop-up headlights for fixed units—the first-generation Honda NSX still holds legendary status today.
Now, renowned Italian coachbuilder Pininfarina is teaming up with JAS Motorsport to give this classic a modern revival. After offering only teasers earlier in the year, the duo has finally revealed the restomod in full. The updated model, dubbed Tensei—a Japanese word meaning “rebirth”—features sleeker bodywork, refined lines, and contemporary lighting elements. The result is a striking reinterpretation of the original Honda NSX, blending its timeless shape with fresh, modern aesthetics.
A Closer Look at the JAS Tensei
Pininfarina has stayed remarkably faithful to the Honda NSX original silhouette while giving the restomod a fresh, modern edge. Every body panel is now crafted from carbon fiber, and the refinements are subtle but deliberate. The front end adopts a more aggressive appearance, featuring a larger central intake and integrated LED daytime running lights. A prominent hood vent—borrowed from classic NSX race cars—helps channel airflow, and when viewed from a low angle, it blends seamlessly into the car’s sculpted lines.
The Tensei wears a timeless two-tone livery, pairing a red body with a contrasting black roof. The upper halves of the mirror caps are finished in black as well, and combined with the expansive glass canopy, the roof appears almost like a floating element. Pininfarina also enlarges the side air intakes, further emphasizing the muscular rear fenders without disrupting the Honda NSX familiar profile.
The Tensei rear design takes a noticeably more modern direction than the original NSX. Instead of multiple separate lamp units, the restomod adopts sleek horizontal LED taillights that stretch across the back. The redesigned bumper incorporates an aggressive diffuser, while the exhaust outlets switch to vertically oriented trapezoidal tips for a contemporary, motorsport-inspired look.
Pininfarina is also entrusted with reimagining the interior, though the company has yet to reveal any images. The original Honda NSX featured a clean, driver-focused cabin with large analog gauges and an angled center stack that placed audio and climate controls within easy reach. It will be interesting to see how the coachbuilder elevates the space while resisting the urge to overload it with modern tech.
Technical specifications for the NSX restomod remain a mystery for now. JAS has only offered a brief teaser, stating that the Tensei “will feature cutting-edge technology and advanced mechanics derived from the world of competition.” The company hasn’t provided a timeline for when additional information will be released.
The early NSX’s 3.0-liter naturally aspirated V6 is widely regarded as one of Honda’s finest production engines, though its 270-horsepower output is modest by today’s supercar standards. Fortunately, decades of tuner experience have shown just how receptive this powerplant can be to upgrades, leaving plenty of room for performance enhancements in the Tensei.
JAS Motorsport has been active since 1995, primarily building and developing race cars. The company has long maintained a close partnership with Honda, most notably collaborating on the five-door Civic for the FIA World Touring Car Championship. JAS also oversees global sales, support, and assembly for the NSX GT3 Evo, further cementing its role as one of Honda’s key motorsport allies.
Another NSX Restomod Is on the Horizon
While Pininfarina and JAS are busy bringing the Tensei to life, another legendary Italian design house is preparing its own interpretation of the classic Honda NSX. Italdesign is developing a separate restomod, and an early teaser image hints at a roof-mounted scoop and LED accents outlining an integrated rear spoiler. Beyond that, details are scarce. The company hasn’t revealed any information about the powertrain, nor has it clarified whether the project will be a one-off creation or produced in limited numbers.
