Broad Arrow Auctions, a Hagerty company, has released its latest captivating video featuring the renowned motoring journalist Henry Catchpole behind the wheel of an exceptionally rare second-generation Honda NSX-R. Filmed at the historic Gelleråsen Arena circuit in Sweden, this collaboration showcases the remarkable capabilities of this coveted 2000s supercar. This particular NSX-R, one of fewer than 140 ever produced, holds the distinction of being the first of its kind to be offered at public auction outside of Japan in many years. It is set to be a star lot at the inaugural Broad Arrow Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Auction taking place on May 24th and 25th.
A Rare Glimpse: Joe Twyman, VP of Sales for Broad Arrow’s EMEA Region, emphasized the rarity of the Honda NSX-R, noting that the majority of the approximately 140 units manufactured have remained within the Japanese market. He expressed his excitement at witnessing Henry Catchpole expertly navigate the Swedish circuit in this exceptional example of Honda’s Type R lineage and engineering prowess. This event provided a unique opportunity to experience this iconic supercar on an unfamiliar track and to create a film for enthusiasts to appreciate.
The Swedish Stage: The Gelleråsen Arena, located near Karlskoga in Sweden, is a circuit that may not be widely known to many, including Catchpole himself. However, with his characteristic intuitive driving style, he quickly mastered the 2.35-kilometer track, which has a rich history dating back to its creation in 1949. Over the years, Gelleråsen has hosted non-championship Formula One races, Grand Prix motorcycle racing, and more recently, events such as the Swedish Touring Car Championship and the Porsche Carrera Cup Scandinavia. Legendary figures in motorsport, including Barry Sheene, Jack Brabham, Jim Clark, and Sir Stirling Moss, have all competed on this historic tarmac.
Performance Heritage: The true star of this occasion was undoubtedly the Honda NSX-R, a supercar highly regarded in its era for its striking aesthetics and impressive performance capabilities. Conceived as the ultimate iteration of the iconic NSX, the NSX-R was Honda’s response to formidable rivals from European sports car manufacturers. Honda’s engineers successfully delivered a machine that could compete at the highest level.
Powertrain and Performance Details: The 2003 Honda NSX-R is equipped with a potent 3.2-litre VTEC V6 engine that delivers 290 horsepower. This engine, combined with the NSX-R’s focus on weight reduction and enhanced handling, allowed it to achieve remarkable performance figures. A testament to its capabilities, the NSX-R famously matched the lap time of the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale on the demanding Nürburgring Nordschleife, underscoring its exceptional performance credentials.
Type R Evolution: Introduced in 2002 exclusively for the Japanese market, the second-generation NSX-R perfectly embodied the spirit of Honda’s revered Type R models, with virtually every aspect of the standard NSX undergoing meticulous refinement. A significant feature was the extensive use of lightweight carbon fiber, including the pioneering adoption of the world’s first one-piece hollow-form carbon fiber rear spoiler in a production vehicle. Substantial upgrades were also implemented to enhance the car’s aerodynamics and cooling efficiency, all contributing to its improved performance and exceptional stability at high speeds.
A Collector’s Prize: With fewer than 140 examples of the NA2 NSX-R ever produced, it stands as an exceedingly rare supercar and a deserving centerpiece of Hagerty and Catchpole’s latest compelling film. Broad Arrow is privileged to present this very 2003 Honda NSX-R for acquisition at its inaugural Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este sale on May 24th and 25th. Finished in the classic Championship White, this particular model features a striking interior trimmed in red Alcantara and has been meticulously maintained by its owner in Sweden, with the odometer displaying a mere 15,806 kilometers.
Unprecedented Opportunity: Joe Twyman further commented on the exceptional nature of this offering, stating that it is highly unusual for a Honda NSX-R to become available for public auction outside of Japan. He expressed Broad Arrow’s honor in presenting this concours class-winning example at their inaugural Villa d’Este Auction. He highlighted it as a perfect illustration of the incredible engineering and attention to detail that Honda invested in the NSX-R, anticipating significant interest from collectors worldwide.
Connect with Broad Arrow: Collectors who are interested in placing a bid on this significant piece of Honda and Japanese performance car history are encouraged to reach out to a Broad Arrow Car Specialist at +44 20 4592 0169 (UK/Europe) or +1 313 312 0780 (North America), or via email at info@broadarrowauctions.com. Enthusiasts can also watch Henry Catchpole’s exhilarating experience driving the Honda NSX-R on the Gelleråsen Arena circuit through the provided link.
Summary:
- Henry Catchpole drives a rare 2003 Honda NSX-R in Sweden for Hagerty and Broad Arrow.
- The NSX-R is one of less than 140 second-generation models produced.
- This is the first NSX-R to be publicly auctioned outside Japan in many years.
- The video was filmed at the historic Gelleråsen Arena circuit.
- The 3.2-litre VTEC V6 engine produces 290 horsepower.
- The NSX-R matched the Ferrari 360 Challenge Stradale’s Nürburgring lap time.
- The car features extensive use of carbon fiber, including a unique rear spoiler.
- This 2003 model, finished in Championship White with a red Alcantara interior, has only 15,806 km.
- It will be offered at Broad Arrow’s inaugural Concorso d’Eleganza Villa d’Este Auction on May 24-25.
Disclaimer: Information is based on provided details. Potential buyers are advised to conduct their own thorough inspection and verification of the vehicle.
Source: Broad Arrow Auctions
AI Assistance: Gemini
