AA47 • Honda NSX-T '95

 In 1989, Honda has a concept that shook many manufacturers. This model, the NSX. One that is often called the "Japanese Ferrari" has arguments to fight back, including a V6 V-Tec particularly successful. With a career that lasted until 2005, extreme durability. What is actually the NSX? We will see a Targa version named NSX-T.

Technical sheet

Model	Honda NSX-T
Engine	3.0 V6 274 horsepower
Dimensions	4.40 x 1.81 x 1.17 meter
Mass	1 425 kg
Marketing	1995 - 1997
average coast	60 000 €
0 to 100 km / h	5"9
max	263 km/h
Consumption	10.3 l / 100 km
Date and place	June 13, 2015, Le Mans

Futuristic . Exhibition of Chicago, 1989. Visitors flock to discover the new features offered by the brands. On the Japanese stands, people are scrambling to observe mainly two models: the Mazda MX-5 Miata and the Honda NSX. This second, Ferrari and Lamborghini feared since the presentation of a concept by Pininfarina in 1984, foreshadowing a sporty Honda. The result which emerged five years later, really has nothing to do apart from the general line. The NSX enters a futuristic and attractive line and attention to detail. Japanese supercars had never dared such a line, such refinement and such audacity. The beautiful made ​​about her, journalists are dying to share their discovery, testers are waiting to discover the operator and the public expects to discover the price!

Japanese Ferrari . During that time, Ferrari has three models to its range: the 328, the stratospheric F40 and Testarossa aging. Lamborghini, there remains only the Countach and Jalpa. We understand better why the arrival of a competitor such as Honda NSX has something to fear. At the very angular style of the Countach opposes the smooth and fluid line while the NSX quite responsible for Testarossa line is in contradiction with the relative simplicity of the Japanese. I must say that the NSX (badged Honda or Acura according to country)has it all: an amazing and well-drawn line, a proven and powerful engine and above all a new and very desirable image. It offers premium interior worthy of an airplane cockpit with excellent visibility. It features retractable headlights that improve aerodynamics and meet the canons of the time of design.

Open air . The marketing comes from 1990. In Europe, it is displayed from 495 000 FF, a price equivalent to that of a Ferrari 328 well equipped, which, despite Honda's brand image, was very high. But that has not stopped many American or English to succumb to the charm of the beautiful. Developments happen quickly, as the NSX-R version lightened and recovery even more radical by Mugen. In 1995 the NSX-T was born. This is a version of Targa with a removable roof, allowing for the first time in the NSX be controlled hair blowing. This is accompanied by some minor cosmetic changes. The NSX-T does not really stand a NSX "traditional", if not by its removable roof and wheels. Under the hood, we discover a 3-liter V6 providing 274 horsepower at 7300 r / m and a torque of 284 Nm. Known today, V-Tec system makes its appearance, offering a unique supercharger system enabling reach 8800 rev / m. A device directly inspired by the world of motorcycling with optimizing the weight of parts, many coating titanium.

Top model . The performance is excellent, with the 0 to 100 km / h in 5.9 seconds, a top speed of 260 km / h and the overall scores higher than the Ferrari 328, even if it retains the advantage again . The NSX-T has a fairly unique interior: perfectly bright, it offers a rear bulb in the manner of a C4 Corvette and large windows.The cash line is drawn without any frills, as Honda did in F1 a few years ago. Technologically accomplished, it offers a very decent equipment, such as power windows, central locking, electric and heated mirrors, a stereo chain of beautifully crafted and electric seat adjustment and even an airbag. In the early 90s, this is a must.And even if still blurry image of Honda persists, the public responds now, especially after Ayrton Senna himself has ruled the NSX as an excellent compromise between sport and luxury car.

Elitist . Especially for the NSX-T, Honda redesigned wheels and adopts a model with seven branches more airy, 16-inch front and 17 rear. But this is at the expense of two points: the four tires are completely unbalanced and braking sorely lacking bite. If Honda NSX some have tried to compete, it was short and Series models are scarcely be inspired, suggesting that Honda was a little too rested on its laurels. The success of the NSX Targa is all the more questionable its price has now reached 650 000 FF. An elitist price now close to that of the recent Ferrari 348. But when you buy a Honda NSX, the comparison with the Italian is not smarter. The V8 and V12, is opposed to a V6 metallic sound and strong love that tickle the red zone. The NSX-T was arrested in 1997, but the career of the hard top model is far from stopped.

Defects . The line of the Honda NSX was designed with great care. This is particularly the point that decided many buyers, but above all that is not seen as the work carried on suspensions, directly derived from those used in Formula 1 or the aluminum steering knuckles wrought. Unfortunately, all leaves a sense of unfinished since the brake is not up to par and that suspensions become too soft when the speed increases. The marketing model NSX will go until 2005 suddenly successive restyling but not actually bring new products or improve gaps(disc diameter increased in 2002 but did not actually improve braking) so that in 2005, NSX is finally taking a well-deserved retirement but suggesting that the Japanese were a little too rested on their laurels. The NSX seduced and not quietly disappear ...

Attention to detail . The door handles are carefully hidden along the side windows. The work of designers allowed to achieve a Cd of 0.32, an excellent score for a model whose design dates back to the 80s. With a weight of 1425 kg, the NSX-T is not really light but offset by the tone of his supercharged V6 and satisfactory times. First true Japanese supercar, the Honda NSX deserved wider distribution. Its high price and some uncompensated manufacturing defects unfortunately have them because of it. It must be said that the beautiful started from nothing and conquer a public accustomed to bulls and other rearing horses fell within the impossible ...

Competitive . The back has not changed since 1989, it remains modern, efficient, fully integrated spoiler.Extremely rare in our country, the Honda NSX require proper maintenance budget ... But any case will dangerously raise the pitch, given that there are only very few parts in France. The end result is a balanced model, well drawn and deserved to be better known. Compared to its competitors, it was innovative in many ways and embedded technology was worth the detour. Its price has unfortunately discouraged the more adventurous.

Should I buy a Honda NSX-T?

There are actually average price opportunity for a Honda NSX. The palette ranges generally from 30 to € 90 000, depending on the condition, mileage but also the model. For NSX-T, it will be patient and provide a big ticket (more even) . It is a model tying and forward thinking with a very accomplished and mechanical equipment well above its competitors. To find the right copy, better cross borders and why not consider the import? Consider also the many clubs NSX enthusiasts, they are sure to lead you.

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AB10 • Mercedes SL (R230) 55 AMG '02

When Mercedes launched its sixth generation of S-Class, the least we can say is that it was noticed ... and remarkable. But after passing the AMG sorcerer, the recipe has never been so enticing. But what is the secret of this seductress named SL 55 AMG?

Technical sheet

Model	Mercedes SL 55 AMG
Engine	5.4 V8 476 horses
Dimensions	4.54 x 1.82 x 1.30 meters
Mass	1 880 kg
Marketing	2001 - 2003
average coast	30 000 €
0 to 100 km / h	4"5
max	325 km/h
Consumption	14.2 l / 100 km
Date and place	June 10, 2015, Le Mans

The symbiosis . In Mercedes, the SL-Class for Sport Leicht, light sport, has always had a special place in the heart of enthusiasts. It must be said that since the 300 SL Gullwing of 1954, the fair has steadily put on weight as and when the years. Some generations have left fans of this elegant coupe or convertible frustrated a bit like the R107 produced from 1971 to 1989, the undemonstrative design. A gap filled by the R129 produced until 2001 by its incredibly fluid line. It is likely then that offering a descent to a successful model is not easy.But the bet is taken in 2001 with a new generation Mercedes SL. A model wanted more dynamic in style and behavior and that always offers a prodigious accreditation symbiosis between comfort, luxury and elegance.Appointed internal R230, the new SL-Class sports a significantly revised facies, with headlights inspired by the Class C and E.

New plumage . The new SL range offers petrol engines exclusively, from the wise V6 245 horsepower SL 350 up versions 55 and 65 AMG V8 and V12 476 and 612 horses. For this article, we will take just a touch of opulence by staying on the version 55 AMG. Already a desirable jewel that is assessed primarily for its line. A fine line with modern lights and racy lights, stylistic elements arranged with gumption for a really elegant result. In the early '00 years, the Mercedes customer is still pretty old and the brand does not really want to shock his fans by proposing a model too exuberant. It is clear that the 55 AMG is rather wise at first, with bumper slightly more elaborate version of the "classic" low profile box and of course four tailpipes. Aside from that, the prerogative is limited, which keeps more discretion, even if it's quite subjective, compared to a Porsche 911 Carrera S cabriolet.

Sport Leicht . The front very plunging the previous generation was preserved but brought up to date. At the rear, the previous soft top is permanently deleted in favor of a hard top deployable into three parts. An ingenious mechanism but has had the effect of making a little silly the Sport Leicht as beautiful now exceeds two tons. Considerable weight but not necessarily disturbing for this SL 55 AMG that appears more like a GT than a pure sports. The relief was not sought, preferring instead a rather rich equipment. Obviously this is reflected in the handling, but performance remains quite correct. At innovation, Mercedes continued its momentum by refining its active suspension (ABC) and Brake Assist (SBC) which improves efficiency and could almost forget some unwanted kilos.

Very dynamic . Mounted 18 inches, the Mercedes SL 55 AMG has four ventilated disc brakes 360 and 330 millimeters respectively 8 and 4 pistons. A widely perceptible impressive device mounted behind the series of AMG wheels. Under the long hood, we find an impressive atmospheric 5.4-liter V8. A particularly sound engine that suits rather well in this big coupe. Rapid acceleration and a clearly more sporty and dynamic character that versions less endowed. The 0 to 100 km / h in 4.7 seconds swallowed, turning each walk in a moment of intense pleasure. The sequential gearbox is not there to spoil the fun. Well staged, it offers an honorable accreditation and paddles behind the steering wheel, a first for an AMG model. Incisive and equipped with lightweight trains, behavior has everything to shed its weight of 1.9 tons.

Image dusted . The competition has better watch out, the Mercedes SL 55 AMG offers the versatility and comfort of a GT and the furious temperament of a sporty, a clever compromise that we do not find that at Porsche. But again, difficult to oppose these two very different models which do not attract a similar audience. Mercedes and its image a bit dated at this time jouie then a renewed interest in a younger audience, but not enough to tempt the addicted porschiste the Flat-6. Yet this does not demerit SL and all the arguments for appeal, except for a base price High enough to € 133,000. Overall easy to drive, it tolerates some wrongdoing through a fairly intrusive ESP and rigidity.

Cocoon . The interior is dressed in leather, alcantara and aluminum buttons and do not forget the practical aspects, like any self-respecting GT. No frills, the premium elegance, with a sharply higher finish and carefully selected and assembled materials. The AMG badges distributed in several places are there to remind that this SL 55 AMG is not (that) to figuration, on the contrary. Strict two-seater, it has front seats electrically adjustable in nearly all positions to release room behind the seats, as we suspect, the roof system hard into three parts takes place ... And once top down, it is better to roll leicht .

Restyling . In the end, the results of this SL 55 AMG is rather positive. But this will not prevent the brand with the star to make a mechanical change in 2004, after only two years of commercialization to display 500 horsepower. A first facelift occurred in 2006 on headlights, grille and bumper and passing the power to 517 horsepower. Finally, in 2008, the second and final restyling changes ahead with headlights that remind more a modern reinterpretation of those in the 911 vintage 996. We must build on nearly € 30,000 to find a Mercedes SL 55 AMG stage 1 in good condition. The out of the ordinary configurations are rare and often have a significant added value. Grey Metallic is by far the most common ... And the easiest to find!

Should I buy a Mercedes SL 55 AMG?

The Mercedes SL 55 AMG is a great car, good family and very elegant. His good behavior and performance are forgetting the very high weight. But he returned to the charge with a particularly high consumption exceeding 30 liters per 100 kilometers at a high load. As for maintenance, it is no surprise that it is high enough, do not forget that this is a V8 engine. But aside from that, it is a fairly reliable model, except for some occasional weaknesses in the fuel pump or the CBA. Do not wait to offer this stylish roadster in the worthy line of classSport Leight .
 

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AG95 • Renault Mégane 3 RS Trophy-R '14

Before she passes the torch to the next generation, the Megane RS 3 has undergone the same slimming treatment that the Megane RS R26-R 2 there six years. Named Trophy-R, this new version leverages a unique livery and top-flight performance with a goal for Renault register again compact in the records of the Nürburgring. Mission accomplished or umpteenth version of a older model?

Technical sheet

Model	Renault Mégane RS 275 Trophy-R
Engine	2.0 inline 4-cylinder 275 horsepower
Dimensions	4.31 x 1.85 x 1.42 meter
Mass	1 297 kg
Marketing	2014 - 2015 250 copies
average coast	40 000 €
0 to 100 km / h	5"8
max	255 km/h
Consumption	7.5 l / 100 km
Date and place	September 26, 2015, Le Mans

A little history . Presented at the Geneva show in 2009, a year after the coupe and sedan, the Renault Megane 3 RS please immediately. It shows an aggressive design and a turbocharged 250 horsepower. Two successive restyling carry the power to 265 horsepower. Success was immediate and popularized after the Brigade of Fast Intervention Gendarmerie passes control 70 copies. The Megane RS adopted in 2011 a RS Trophy version similar to first premium Mégane RS "classic" who slaughters around the Nürburgring in 8 minutes and 7 seconds, overlooking the record of the Megane 2 RS R26-R, flagship of the range in 2008. Better yet, the RS Trophy is able to compete with vehicles much higher classes, such as the BMW M3, with an incredibly sharp frame and a power available to all plans. But for Renault, this is still not enough!

# Under8 . This is to mark the second restyling of Megane that the diamond brand unveiled the RS Trophy-R.With its white livery, its black or red rim, its strippings, blade bumper red or black pieces, it seems to be the reincarnation of the Megane 2 RS-R R26. A comparison rather flattering since it signed a very good 8 minutes 16 seconds on the famous German circuit. But now it's a whole other objective than the RS Trophy-R is: # Under8. Behind this lies the hashtag mission of this Mégane beat the lap record at the Nürburgring and establish itself as the ultimate reference of the sporty compact. From an aesthetic point of view, we discover a Mégane RS coated with a pearl white livery and a starry black roof. A coherent and effective set plus bright red buttons, widely seen on the F1 blade wheels (even if it is optional and that only one of the two RS Trophy-R of this article has ) and strippings with the head of Renault Sport.

Sportive . The Speedline Turini wheels are 19 inches. They are painted bright red but can also be black, which is rare with less than five copies made ​​that choice. Braking is provided by Brembo brake calipers pinching ventilated discs at the front and rear of 340 and 290 millimeters. In other words, the braking is nothing haphazard and rather well befits the Mégane RS Trophy-R 3. The handling is exclusive to this model. The Cup boosts frame behavior in the best sense: everything was done to make this Mégane is the most fun to drive without denying (too) comfortable. The limited slip differential increases the speed of passage curve while the suspensions and shock absorbers can be adjusted according to the desired use. The DFV system ensures optimum damping in case of sudden braking, avoiding the loss of control and to leave quickly without weighing the front. You said sports?

Light is right . But where the bulk of the work has been concentrated, it is on relief. 100 kg of earned on a car, this may seem little, but in reality it makes all the difference. Let's start with the interior. First, the Mégane RS Trophy-R is assessed at two, only two since the back seat has been replaced by a stabilizing arch, a gain of 20 kg. Then there are the perfectly equipped enveloping light bucket five-point harness. That's about all! Less visible, the composite springs lower the total mass of 2 kg while the titanium exhaust, signed Akrapovic offers a weight saving and a sound worthy of a great sonata. Note also the disappearance of the rear wiper and its motor, generating an additional kilo, but many insulators and absorbent layers. In the end, a weight to below 1,300 kg. This means that the sound of the engine and the exhaust system, it is difficult to forget them!

Adorned for the track . To ensure proper handling, they also need good tires, like the Michelin Pilot Sport Cup 2 fitted as standard. Nothing was left to chance for this Mégane RS Trophy-R falsely civilized. Note that a Comfort Plus package is available as an option, including dual-zone auto air conditioning, multimedia system, reversing camera and even the center armrest. What use beautiful every day a little more comfortably. But do not mistake-there: this pack was rarely mounted! And it is looking at the performance of Laurent Hurgon, Renault Sport pilot, which includes the interests of lightening treatment: he signed May 15, 2014 a great 7 minutes 54 seconds and 36 hundredths at the Nürburgring , filling handily goal # Under8 who composed the Renault Sport advertising campaign.

Optimization . Up front, F1 blade's presence there is painted bright red present on the Mégane 3 RS Phase 2 since 2012 with Trophy-R headband. Each piece receives a net in the boot and the rear retaining bar to store up to four complete wheels for use on circuit. Series limited to 250 copies only, the Mégane RS Trophy 3-R demanded an investment of € 45,000. A high amount for a Mégane but justified by the work done by engineers to make the RS more efficient than ever. And when we know that on the second hand market, best sale price was almost traded to new! An optional kit Record Nürburgring can complete the deal for € 2,388. It features front brake discs wider (350 mm) mounted on non-suspended bowl, a lithium-ion battery, specific harness with an additional gain in the final 19 kg.

275 horses . Under the hood, it's no surprise that we find the 4-cylinder already equipping the Mégane RS 3 classic. With a capacity of 2 liters, the engine block has a turbocharger providing 275 horsepower, a gain of 10 horsepower over the non Trophy versions. Trophy-R adapts to the type of trip and the driver profile with several driving modes including Sport, only to let it fully express the 275 horsepower, the other is limited to 250. The sound revealed by the Akrapovic line is mesmerizing while times will greatly improve, as acceleration, more frank and give the feeling of having won a lot of horsepower under the hood.

Ultimate symbiosis . Strippings side can be removed when ordering for more discretion. In terms of consumption, they stood around 8 liters in the combined cycle but rising fast during prolonged acceleration.And like Mégane Trophy-R asks only that, it is not the most reasonable purchase. In terms of defects, many returning, as some long gear ratios or the quaint rate. In reality, it is difficult to reproach to this successful Mégane, a sort of quintessence and ultimate symbiosis of the Megane RS perfect.

Already collector . End of 2014, all the copies are already sold, some bought by garages to be sold shortly after once elapsed stocks. This is primarily why the Megane 3 Trophy-R was a collector just days after its release model. Currently, the opportunity score is very close to the original price, around € 35,000. Renault Sport was able to analyze the positive feedback obtained in his Megane 2 RS-R to offer the Trophy-R. We bet that this version will be made ​​on the fourth-generation Mégane when it reaches maturity and a couple of restyling.

Derivatives . Renault has developed a range of accessories dedicated to the Mégane Trophy-R, commes of tire covers , mini helmet similar to the one worn by Laurent Hurgon at the record but also a watch V6-44-Trophy-R, with the same number as the Mégane Trophy-R to its owner. The question that most returns: why have restricted this compact testosterone packed only 250 copies while the R26-R is the 450? Probably for it to become even faster an unattainable myth for many and to maintain a fairly elitist image.

Akrapovic . In the end, a single RS Megane 3 is obtained of its kind that offers a well deserved retirement this generation. The 250 pieces, including 72 reserved for the French market s e are quickly passed despite a selling price set deliberately high and is found on the used market. No doubt the strong image of this model and its program for the Nürburgring # Under8 have contributed to this success.

Should I buy a Renault Mégane RS Trophy-R?

The RS Trophy-R is the Mégane not to be missed. Comfortable enough for everyday use, it can also be daunting on a circuit where its performance is a treat. Lean and optimized, it does not open any major default, why deprive yourself? Perhaps the financial argument. The best examples can pull more than the new price to 35 to € 50 000. Better to not be too hasty!
 

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