Our current version of our NA1 Honda NSX has been in the making since February 2019. A little over 2 years the time of writing this. During this time, it’s seen 2 different engines and a vast array of performance parts. We feel that now is the right time to write the definitive spec list as it currently stands, so grab a cuppa, sit down and read all about or much-loved Tsuki!
Engine
After two previous N/A builds featuring a relatively stock K20A2 and Skunk2 K24 high compression block, we enlisted the help of renowned Honda enthusiasts, Skunk2 Racing to build our current engine. A hand built, sleeved K24 block from the guys in America featuring a 11:5:1 compression ratio was built specifically to accommodate our need for boost.
A Kraftwerks C38-R race Rotrex supercharger kit was the weapon of choice due to their unmatched combination of power and reliability. We estimate that Tsuki makes in the region of between 600-700 horsepower. Boost is controlled by a state-of-the-art Turbosmart Gen V Race Port Blow-off Valve and HyperGate External Wastegate to enable us to run boost by gear. We’re yet to get a reliable figure as we’ve struggled to get the power down on our in-house dyno.
With the engine bay busier than ever, we knew that temperatures would be on the rise. That’s why we sent our custom ICEFAB exhaust off to have a performance thermal coating. This delivers the ultimate thermal barrier and keeps temperatures down by up to 33%. ICEFAB feature heavily on this build, with a custom radiator, charge cooler and oil cooler too.
With this much power we use a Sunoco E85 fuel mix to take advantage of the cooling effects that alcohol-type fuel has to offer, whilst also preventing knock. Of course, we’ve upgraded the fuelling system with Grams Performance 1,600cc injectors and 320LPH fuel pump.
Transmission
Getting the power to the wheels is taken care of by a Satchel Engineering 6 speed sequential gearbox. This is then transmitted via an ACT Xtreme clutch and lightened flywheel and sent to the rear wheels via Kruger Engineering custom driveshafts. Our driver, Luke, flicks through the gears with the help of Geartronics paddle air shifters. To avoid one-wheel peel, a Satchel Engineering Plated LSD helps the NSX to maintain traction.
Wheels & Tyres
Making use of Pirelli Slicks for the first time in our conquest to take on the Pro Classes in Time Attack UK, we utilise WedsSport TC-105X alloy wheels. These are a super light wheel and help to reduce unsprung weight to aid faster acceleration and better braking. After previously running a staggered setup, we now run 18” wheels at all 4 corners with a 9J up front and 9.5J at the rear. Keeping them firmly in place are a set of Muteki SR48 wheel nuts.
Brakes & Suspension
Bringing Tsuki to a timely halt is done via a set of YSR big brakes on both the front and rear axle. You’ll find a set of 6 piston calipers up front with 356mm discs and 4 piston calipers at the rear with a 330mm disc. Our brake pads of choice are Pagid RSL29’s. They provide plenty of bite and offer brilliant fade resistance and modulation.
Nitron NTR R3 coilovers utilise a class-leading 40mm piston design and ultra-strong piston rods to demonstrate exceptional levels of damping control and refinement. Performance is achieved through accurate control of its 3-way independent damping with instant feedback transmitted through the wheels, thus allowing the limits of traction to be explored confidently.
Hardrace and Cedar Ridge spherical arms allow us to dial the suspension into our requirements. ICEFAB feature once again with a custom anti-roll bar up front. Limiting the slip of the rear wheels is a RaceTCS traction control system. This clever box means the NSX can keep wheel slip in optimal range for varying weather conditions and maximise acceleration.
Exterior
Moving on to the outside of the vehicle, is the bespoke Itasha livery. We commissioned renowned illustrator and designer Ontakeriput to help us create the look that we wanted. Our livery gives us a not-so-subtle nod to its Japanese heritage whilst also standing out from the rest of the paddock.
There’s plenty of custom bodywork on offer too. A Le Mans style aero front bumper make for a wider front end and wide front wings accommodate the hefty Pirelli slicks. A custom Tegiwa front splitter finish the front end off nicely and offer even more in the name of aerodynamics. Keeping the radiator cool is a carbon NSX-R style bonnet with a huge scoop to allow as much air as possible around vital components.
Arguably the most noticeable design feature of the NSX is the GT500 style carbon scoop, reminiscent of the classic Gran Turismo days. It’s not just a nice-looking piece of dry carbon, but also a vital component that keeps the engine as cool as possible too.
Ballade Sports carbon aero mirrors make sure that every gram of weight is saved. Weighing in at only 450 grams, the shape is based off the extremely popular MotoGP series and feature enhanced vortex generators located underneath the belly of the mirror pod. Polycarbonate windows also feature, all in the name of keeping weight at a minimal.
A custom Tegiwa rear carbon wing keeps the back end of Tsuki in shape and create a decent amount of downforce to push the rear tyres into the tarmac.
Interior
Keeping Luke firmly held in place is a Cobra Ultralite carbon bucket seat and a Takata 6-point race harness. An AIM MXG dashboard allow Luke to read the vital conditions of the car and a Racelogic VBOX HD2 mean that both driver and mechanics can offer feedback and improvements for each session. A MegaLife MR-30 keeps power running smoothly whilst weighing in at only 2.6kg! Autotel radio communications also feature to enable driver and team to offer support and advice during mid-session outings. The interior is finished off with a super smart Personal suede 330mm steering wheel which is mated to an Upaclick custom button box.
Tsuki will be competing in the Pro Time Attack classes during 2021 as we aim to take the top step again after being crowned Club 2WD champions in 2020. Make sure you drop us a follow on our socials to stay up to date with all of Tegiwa Racing action! You can also check out our full range of photos on our Flickr page, here.
Finally, we would like to give a huge shoutout to the following brands for all their help with this incredible build:
