Key Takeaways
- The Acura NSX roadster, seen in Marvel’s 2012 “The Avengers,” will appear at Monterey Car Week on August 15.
- Acura plans to auction the film’s roadster for charity, with bidding starting next year.
- The NSX roadster was custom-built for the movie, based on a 1991 NSX chassis, and features unique design elements.
Acura NSX Roadster Returns for Public Viewing
In 2012, Honda and Acura fans were treated to a unique sight in Marvel’s “The Avengers.” The film not only smashed box office records, grossing over $1.5 billion, but also introduced a standout vehicle: a burgundy Acura NSX roadster driven by Tony Stark, portrayed by Robert Downey Jr. This departure from the previously featured Audi R8 marked a significant moment for car enthusiasts.
On August 12, Acura announced a special exhibition of the very NSX roadster from the film during Monterey Car Week, specifically at The Quail, A Motorsports Gathering, on August 15. This event celebrates the 35th anniversary of the original NSX and the roadster’s first public appearance in over a decade.
In addition to showcasing the film’s iconic car, Acura will auction the Stark NSX roadster for charity, opening bidding opportunities to interested participants at Monterey, with the final auction scheduled for next year. The roadster is not only noteworthy for its cinematic history but also for its unique features, such as a custom ‘Stark 33’ license plate. Acura’s display will also feature important NSX models, including the rare 1995 NSX-R, which was never available in the U.S., and a limited 1999 Zanardi Edition, along with the latest RSX Prototype and future electric SUV models.
Before its cinematic debut, the NSX concept was first presented at the 2012 Detroit Auto Show and featured prominently in an Acura Super Bowl advertisement. While the production version of the second-generation NSX would not be released until 2016, the bespoke roadster was crafted specifically for the film by Hollywood fabricators Trans FX, under the direction of Acura’s design team led by Dave Marek.
Remarkably, the NSX roadster saw its body constructed from hand-crafted resin and fiberglass, restyled atop a well-used 1991 NSX chassis with over 252,000 miles. To ensure reliability during filming, the team opted for an original NSX as the foundation. Modifications included a decreased ride height, aftermarket bucket seats, and upgraded 18-inch wheels to enhance its performance and aesthetic appeal.
For car and film enthusiasts alike, this unique vehicle represents not only a piece of movie memorabilia but also a notable chapter in Honda and Acura’s legacy. As Acura prepares for its public showings and the charity auction, there’s hope that this iconic roadster will find a welcoming home, possibly in a museum or collector’s showcase for future generations to admire.
The content above is a summary. For more details, see the source article.
