Story by PAS Staff
Photography courtesy of JAS Motorsport
Some legends are best left untouched. Others deserve a second life. JAS Motorsport has chosen the latter with the Tensei, an extensively re-engineered interpretation of the first-generation Honda NSX, featuring Italian design by Pininfarina and a naturally aspirated V6 reworked by British motorsport engine specialist Judd Power.
Named after the Japanese word for rebirth or reincarnation, the Tensei builds on the original NSX's philosophy of delivering an engaging driving experience without relying on excessive horsepower. Pininfarina, whose connection to the NSX lineage dates back to the 1984 HP-X concept, has completely reimagined the exterior while preserving recognizable elements such as the side intakes, integrated rear wing, and references to the original pop-up headlights. The bodywork is constructed entirely from carbon fibre, including the front fenders, rear quarter panels, doors, bumpers, and a fully flat floor.
Behind the driver sits a thoroughly reworked 3.5L naturally aspirated V6 from Judd Power, the British motorsport engine specialist with a history spanning Formula One, Le Mans, Daytona, and Formula 3000. Founded in 1971 by John Judd and three-time Formula One World Champion Sir Jack Brabham, the company brings decades of racing engine expertise to the Tensei. Producing a claimed 420 bhp and 350 Nm of torque, the engine features forged internals, six individual throttle bodies, an updated ECU, and an 8,500-rpm limiter. Power is delivered through a manual transmission with an updated gear-selector system, twin-plate clutch, and limited-slip differential.
The chassis receives equally extensive attention, with revised suspension geometry, KW coilovers featuring Dynamic Damping Control, and a KW hydraulic front-axle lift system. Brembo six-piston front and four-piston rear brakes handle stopping duties, while staggered 19-inch front and 20-inch rear forged aluminum wheels complete the package. Optional upgrades include forged magnesium wheels and carbon-ceramic brakes.
Inside, Pininfarina has redesigned the cockpit around the driver, combining a minimalist layout with premium materials, precision-crafted metal details, and extensive personalization options. Each Tensei will be produced in an ultra-limited series at JAS Motorsport's atelier near Milan, with US customers supported through Graham Rahal Performance and Canadian customers through Pfaff Auto Reserve.
For more info, visit JAS-Tensei.it.
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