Some cars become legends because of their speed, while others win hearts because of the way they make people feel behind the wheel. The original Honda NSX achieved both. Now, decades later, Italian motorsport specialist JAS Motorsport has reimagined this Japanese icon as the JAS Tensei, a limited-production supercar that combines classic driving pleasure with modern engineering.
Unveiled in October 2026, the Tensei is developed around the first-generation Honda NSX, with styling by Pininfarina and engine development by Judd Power. Only 35 examples are planned, making it an exceptionally exclusive machine.
Exterior Design: Classic NSX DNA With Modern Elegance
The Tensei preserves the spirit of the original NSX while giving it a more dramatic and contemporary appearance. Its redesigned body features flowing surfaces, wider proportions, a lower stance and extensive carbon-fibre construction.
Pininfarina has carefully reworked the original car’s distinctive character rather than abandoning it. The design retains the unmistakable pop-up-headlight concept, reinterpreted with a modern mechanism and LED lighting, along with familiar side air-intake styling and a striking rear light signature.
The result is a supercar that feels connected to its heritage without looking like an ordinary restored classic.
Engine and Performance
A Naturally Aspirated V6 Built for Driving Enthusiasts
One of the most exciting aspects of the Tensei is its engine. Instead of relying on turbocharging or electrification, JAS has chosen a naturally aspirated 3.5-litre V6 developed by Judd Power.
The engine produces a claimed 420 bhp and 350 Nm of torque according to JAS’s published technical information. Its high-revving character, six individual throttle bodies and 8,500-rpm limit are designed to deliver a direct, engaging connection between the driver and the machine.
Power is sent to the rear wheels through a six-speed manual gearbox and a limited-slip differential. For enthusiasts who miss the involvement of traditional supercars, this combination is a major part of the Tensei’s appeal.
2026 JAS Tensei Specifications
| Specification | JAS Tensei |
|---|---|
| Base vehicle | First-generation Honda NSX |
| Engine | 3.5-litre naturally aspirated V6 |
| Engine developer | Judd Power |
| Maximum power | 420 bhp |
| Maximum torque | 350 Nm |
| Redline | 8,500 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Drivetrain | Rear-wheel drive |
| Body construction | Carbon fibre |
| Front brakes | Brembo 380 mm discs |
| Production | 35 units |
| Official price | Not publicly disclosed |
Specifications are based on JAS’s published technical details; equipment and final configurations may vary.
Chassis, Brakes and Lightweight Construction
Engineered for Precision
The Tensei is more than a cosmetic redesign. JAS reinforces the original aluminium structure with carbon-fibre elements and equips the car with a newly developed carbon-fibre body.
Its suspension uses adjustable KW dampers, while Brembo brakes provide serious stopping power. Optional carbon-ceramic brakes and forged magnesium wheels offer further opportunities for personalisation.
These upgrades are intended to improve structural performance, handling and driver confidence while retaining the balanced character that made the original NSX so memorable.
Interior: Classic Inspiration Meets Modern Technology
The cabin blends the original NSX’s driver-focused layout with updated equipment. Digital instrumentation, a modern infotainment system, sculpted sports seats and carefully selected leather and Alcantara finishes bring the interior into the modern era.
Rather than filling the cabin with unnecessary screens, the design aims to keep the driver focused on the road. Customers can also personalise materials, colours and finishes to create a more individual car.
JAS Tensei Price in 2026
The official price has not been publicly disclosed by JAS. Earlier reporting from Top Gear cited a price of approximately £770,000, plus the donor car and applicable taxes. This should be treated as a reported estimate, not a confirmed current quotation.
With only 35 cars planned, the Tensei is aimed at collectors and enthusiasts seeking a highly personalised, rare supercar rather than an everyday performance vehicle. An Indian price, launch date and official availability have not been announced.
Final Verdict
The JAS Tensei brings a fresh chapter to one of Japan’s most respected supercar stories. Its naturally aspirated V6, manual gearbox, carbon-fibre body and Pininfarina design give it a character that stands apart from today’s increasingly digital performance cars.
It is not simply an old NSX wearing a new body. It is a carefully re-engineered interpretation of the original’s philosophy, built for drivers who believe that the emotion of driving matters just as much as outright speed.
Disclaimer: Specifications and production details are based on information published by JAS Motorsport and automotive media reports. Pricing remains unconfirmed by the manufacturer. Availability, final specifications and taxes may vary by market.