Honda NSX hits the market. The legacy of Ayrton Senna lives on
Ayrton Senna significantly contributed to the development of the first Honda NSX. The model made available to the legendary driver whenever he visited Portugal is now for sale, with the owner expecting a substantial sum for what is undoubtedly a difficult parting.
The Honda NSX is an iconic vehicle of the 1990s, a period when Japan was enjoying a golden era in Formula 1. From 1986, Japan clinched titles first with Williams and then with McLaren. The expertise gathered from the pinnacle of motorsport was subsequently leveraged in the development of the NSX, which launched in 1990.
Ayrton Senna's direct involvement significantly enhanced the car's popularity and performance. The three-time world champion claimed his titles with a Honda engine and was intimately involved in the car's development. He rigorously tested various prototypes and made comprehensive reports, guiding engineers on improvements.
The Brazilian owned several Honda NSX models, one poised to enter a new phase in its history as it goes on sale. The current owner shares its story, which justifiably elevates this particular vehicle's price to extraordinary levels.
Robert McFagan acquired the car in 2013 from a Honda dealership in Faro, Portugal. Honda Portugal officially owned this NSX but was always available for Senna's use, especially when he stayed at his property in the Algarve region. Moreover, Senna frequently used this car to travel to races.
According to McFagan, before his tragic death on May 1, 1994, at the Imola track, Senna had driven this car for about 3,107 miles (around 5,000 km). Over 11 years, the owner added 8,580 miles (about 13,795 km) to it. Now, the odometer reads 39,768 miles (64,000 km).
The car was meticulously maintained, being stored in a living room during winter months—McFagan even provided a photo as proof. It was shielded from the rain and looked after by the same mechanic for 9 years, with regular oil changes and recent water pump replacements and timing belt.
Given its history, the asking price for Ayrton Senna's Honda NSX is understandably steep — 500,000 pounds, or just over 625,000 dollars. McFagan plans to showcase it at the Senna Exhibition at Silverstone in August 2024. He hopes the buyer will be patient and take possession of this remarkable NSX after the event.
