1991 Honda NSX Sells for $51,000 Despite Flood Damage and High Mileage
A 1991 Honda NSX with flood damage and high mileage sells for $51,000 despite being called 'junk' by the seller.
Key Takeaways
- A 1991 Honda NSX sold for $51,000 despite severe flood damage and high mileage.
- The car has 236,776 km (147,100 miles) and a four-speed automatic transmission.
- Photos show floodwater reaching the upper portions of the doors.
- The seller described the car as ‘junk’ and a restoration base.
- The auction started at ¥1 million (about $6,400) and ended at ¥8.004 million.
What Happened to the NSX?
The original Honda NSX has become a precious collector’s item, even in damaged condition. This 1991 NSX spent part of last July sitting in floodwater high enough to cover much of its doors. Despite this, it still managed to sell for $51,000.
The car’s flood damage is evident in the photos, which show water reaching the upper portions of the doors. The seller was upfront about the damage, describing the car as ‘junk’ and a restoration base.
Why Did the NSX Sell for So Much?
Despite the damage, the NSX’s aluminum-intensive construction makes the shell itself potentially interesting to a determined restorer or someone who needs NSX-specific parts.
Additionally, the car’s Japanese-market provenance may make it particularly desirable to some collectors. Whatever the reason, paying $51,000 for a 147,000-mile automatic NSX that recently impersonated a submarine takes considerable optimism.
What Does the Future Hold for the NSX?
It’s unclear what the winning bidder plans to do with the car, but it’s possible they see a restoration project worth saving. The NSX’s value as a collector’s item may continue to appreciate, making it a potentially valuable investment.
Is the NSX Worth the Price?
While the NSX’s price may seem high, it’s not entirely unreasonable given its rarity and collector’s value. However, the cost of restoration and potential future problems with the car’s electrical systems and drivetrain may make it a risky investment.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Year | 1991 |
| Mileage | 236,776 km (147,100 miles) |
| Transmission | Four-speed automatic |
| Price | ¥8.004 million (about $51,000) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What happened to the NSX?
The NSX was damaged in a flood and spent part of last July sitting in water high enough to cover much of its doors.
Q: Why did the NSX sell for so much?
The NSX’s aluminum-intensive construction and Japanese-market provenance may make it particularly desirable to some collectors.
Q: Is the NSX worth the price?
While the NSX’s price may seem high, it’s not entirely unreasonable given its rarity and collector’s value. However, the cost of restoration and potential future problems with the car’s electrical systems and drivetrain may make it a risky investment.
