We recently highlighted the differences between the first-generation Acura NSX with its sibling across the pond, the Honda NSX. As you can imagine, there were only a couple of differences – the main one being the badge on the front and back of the car. But what about the second-generation Honda and Acura NSX? What are the differences between those two cars?

There are a few differences between the second-gen Honda and Acura NSX

To the naked eye, it’s easy to see that the Japanese Honda NSX is similar to its American Acura counterpart. However, it takes a trained eye to notice the subtle differences. The folks at Garage Dreams pointed out the following variances between the two cars:

• Honda/Acura badge
• The Japanese NSX emits a beeping sound when reversing. It’s not the parking sensor sound; it’s a sound similar to one you find on a delivery truck, per Japan’s regulations.
• Honda models feature a different hood hinge that pops out to push the hood upwards in the event of a collision with a pedestrian. This feature complies with the safety standards in Japan and Europe.
• Acura models have a different airbag and restraint system. In the U.S., airbags are meant to comply with passengers that are not belted in.
• Acura models have amber indicator glass while Honda models have clear glass. This is due to regulations in the U.S.
• Acura models are left-hand-drive

As we can see, some minor differences exist between the Japanese NSX and its American counterpart. However, it would take a keen eye to notice them. Otherwise, everything else on both cars is identical.

What engine does the second-gen Honda NSX have?

If you need a refresher, the second-generation Honda NSX is powered by a twin-turbocharged 3.5-liter V6 engine that’s mated to a trio of electric motors. Two electric motors drive the front axles independently, while the third one powers the rear wheels. The powertrain is paired with a nine-speed dual-clutch automatic transmission that transmits 573 hp and 476 lb-ft of torque to all four wheels.

That power is enough to motivate the 3,800-pound car up to 60 mph in only 3.1 seconds and up to a top speed of 190 mph. Considering the car is mainly a hybrid, that’s darn impressive. But what’s more impressive is that the car can be driven for short distances on electric power only, making it feel like an electric car at lower speeds.

How much does the Honda NSX cost?

The second-generation Acura NSX currently costs anywhere between $130,000 and $170,000 in the used market, so we suspect the Honda version costs around the same. However, factoring in the Yen to USD conversion could cost a little more. Despite this, it’s safe to say that the second-gen Honda NSX still costs a pretty penny and would not equate to any cost savings if imported into the U.S.

Considering the few differences between the Honda and Acura NSX, we suggest purchasing the U.S. model for some cost savings.