After an extensive restoration, the iconic Honda HP-X Concept, initially revealed at the 1984 Turin Auto Show, is making its North American debut at the 2024 Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance. The restored HP-X will compete in the prestigious “Wedge-Shaped Concept Cars and Prototypes Class.”
Italian Craftsmanship Meets Japanese Innovation: Designed by the legendary Pininfarina, the HP-X boasts a striking wedge profile and a cockpit reminiscent of a fighter jet. This futuristic design paved the way for Honda’s mid-engine supercar aspirations, eventually realized in the first-generation NSX.
Historic Appearance: The HP-X’s participation at Pebble Beach marks the first Japanese vehicle entry at the event in over half a century. This marks a significant milestone, showcasing the collaboration between Honda and Pininfarina in automotive history.
Restoration and Rediscovery: The meticulous restoration, conducted at Pininfarina’s workshop in Italy, brings back the HP-X’s original glory. “The Honda HP-X Concept was a star at the 1984 Turin Auto Show, and its design continues to inspire,” said Dave Marek, Acura design executive and honorary Pebble Beach Concours judge.
Technological Marvel: The HP-X’s advanced aerodynamics, including “ground effects” and innovative cooling solutions, were ahead of its time. It featured a mid-mounted 2.0-liter DOHC 24-valve V6 engine derived from a Honda F2 racing engine. Notably, it lacks conventional doors, opting instead for a removable Perspex canopy, further emphasizing its futuristic design.
Innovative Features: The HP-X explored cutting-edge materials like honeycomb panels, carbon fiber, and Kevlar to reduce weight and enhance performance. Its interior was equally groundbreaking, with an “Electronic Drive Support System” that previewed modern features like real-time telemetry, GPS, and road condition warnings.
Pininfarina’s Vision: “The HP-X is a prime example of Pininfarina’s ability to present innovative ideas that set future trends,” said Felix Kilbertus, Pininfarina’s chief creative officer. While the HP-X never went into production, its influence on subsequent Honda models and the broader automotive landscape is undeniable.
Legacy of Innovation: The HP-X served as a testbed for ambitious new ideas and engineering principles that would later be seen in the NSX. This concept cemented its place in automotive history, embodying Honda’s and Pininfarina’s spirit of innovation and influencing future developments in the industry.
Specifications:
- Overall Length: 4,160 mm (163.8 inches)
- Overall Width: 1,780 mm (70.1 inches)
- Overall Height: 1,110 mm (43.7 inches)
The Honda HP-X Concept’s return to the spotlight at Pebble Beach not only celebrates its historical significance but also highlights its enduring impact on automotive design and innovation.
