Japan vs Italy — 1990 vs 1992
| NSX Type R (NA1) | 512 TR | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 290 hp | 428 hp |
| Torque | 224 lb-ft | 362 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 2,977 cc | 4,943 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.0 sec | 4.8 sec |
| Top Speed | 174 mph | 195 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.4 sec | 13.0 sec |
| Weight | 2,712 lbs | 3,247 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,530 mm | 2,550 mm |
| Length | 4,430 mm | 4,480 mm |
| Units Produced | 18,000 | 2,261 |
| Original MSRP | $89,000 | $200,000 |
| Value (Excellent) | $250,000 | $400,000 |
| Collectibility | 9/10 | 8/10 |
| Rarity | 5/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1) brings lighter weight, stronger collectibility, better value to the table, and the 1992 Ferrari 512 TR answers with more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
The rivalry between Japan and Italy automotive industries has produced legendary matchups, and the 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1) versus 1992 Ferrari 512 TR is among the most fascinating. These two cars represent the best of their national engineering schools. The 1992 Ferrari 512 TR holds a clear advantage in raw power with 428 hp compared to 290 hp, a 138-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Honda NSX uses a V6 DOHC VTEC (C30A/C32B) displacing 2,977 cc, while the Ferrari 512 TR relies on a Flat-12 DOHC 48V with 4,943 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 1992 Ferrari 512 TR edges ahead at 4.8 seconds versus 5.0 seconds. The Honda NSX carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 535 lbs lighter. Rarity plays a significant role here — with only 2,261 units built, the 1992 Ferrari 512 TR is considerably scarcer than the Honda NSX's 18,000 examples. On the collector market, the 1992 Ferrari 512 TR commands a significant premium over the 1990 Honda NSX Type R (NA1), reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.