2004 Detroit Auto Show: Acura HSC High-Performance Sports Concept

at Detroit Auto Show Lightweight, Mid-engine, Two-seater Hints at the Future of Exotic Sports Cars

January 4, 2004 -- Detroit -- Acura's 300-plus horsepower HSC (High-Performance Sports Concept) will make its domestic debut at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. The HSC is a design study combining the ultimate in supercar performance with the interior comfort and handling ease of a daily driver. It features a lightweight body, a compact yet powerful engine and a racing-inspired interior.

The High-Performance Sports Concept features a lightweight 3.5-liter V-6 engine located midship for optimum balance and superior handling. Shifting is accomplished through a unique dial shifter located on the center console or an F-1 style paddle shifter located on the steering wheel.

The HSC features a 4-wheel double wishbone suspension with six-piston caliper Brembo disc brakes on each wheel. Five-spoke forged aluminum alloy racing wheels are shod with 245/35ZR19 tires in front and 295/30ZR20 tires in the rear.

The HSC body is composed of carbon fiber panels over an all-aluminum unit body frame. Short overhangs and a 104.7-inch wheelbase maximize handling and agility. Downloads

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The cockpit is rounded and sleek for an aggressive look as well as increased visibility. A clear glass engine cover, located behind the cockpit, shows off the engine. The lower body boasts a low waistline, rectangular air intakes on both sides, curvaceous fenders, scissor-style doors and sharp lines that leave no doubt to the concept's sporty nature.

The wedge-shaped front fascia includes large, lower air ducts, projector-style HID headlamps and smooth lines for enhanced aerodynamics. In the rear, high-illumination LEDs are incorporated into the taillight housing for a visibility-enhancing three-dimensional design. Dual exhaust tips are integrated into the bumper and a rearview camera, located next to the taillights, transmits the view behind the car to the driver via the navigation system tilt-up screen when the concept shifts into reverse.

Inside, the concept features a race inspired cockpit with black nubuck leather trim and anodized aluminum accents on the door panels, center console, steering wheel and meter housings. Dual gauge clusters feature a tachometer/shift meter on the left and an analog/digital speedometer on the right. A thick, leather-wrapped performance steering wheel and aluminum foot pedals offer increased road feedback and precise control.