1999 NSX Zanardi Edition Sells for Almost $300K

Topping Out

We love the first-gen NSX as much as anybody. But like everything that's attained iconic status in this world, prices for some of these fine rides are getting a bit, shall we say, crazy? However, none can top this amazing 1999 Acura NSX Alex Zanardi Edition, which recently crossed the virtual block over at Bring a Trailer.

Photos: Bring a Trailer

Last One

This particular NSX sold for an eye-raising $277,017, which is brand new hypercar money. But there are several things about it that make it special, of course. For starters, just 51 Alex Zanardi Editions were built in total, and this just so happens to be number 51.

Photos: Bring a Trailer

>>Join the conversation about this Zanardi Edition NSX right here in Honda-Tech.com.

Unique Ownership

This particular car also wasn't just owned by anyone, either. In fact, it was a gift from Honda to motorcycle racer Miguel Duhamel. Duhamel won two season-opening races at the 1999 AMA Daytona 200, despite nursing a broken leg that wasn't even fully healed yet.

Photos: Bring a Trailer

>>Join the conversation about this Zanardi Edition NSX right here in Honda-Tech.com.

Flawless Flanks

Thus, the car doesn't have a ton of miles on the clock, either - just 11,844, to be exact. Otherwise, this is just a clean and amazing example of the rare special edition. On the outside, that means New Formula Red covering flawless flanks and quite a few NSX Type S spec goodies.

Photos: Bring a Trailer

>>Join the conversation about this Zanardi Edition NSX right here in Honda-Tech.com.

Interior Amenities

All Zanardi Editions came with a black interior that utilizes a mix of suede and leather with red stitching. There's also a numbered plaque that displays where the car falls in that 51 car production range, along with amenities including air conditioning, power windows, and door locks, a titanium shift knob, and a leather-wrapped steering wheel.

Photos: Bring a Trailer

>>Join the conversation about this Zanardi Edition NSX right here in Honda-Tech.com.

Unique Features

Underhood, you'll find a 3.2-liter V6 that produces 290 horsepower and 224 lb-ft of torque, which sends power to a six-speed manual transmission. Additional unique Zanardi Edition features include a fixed roof, lightweight rear spoiler, single-pane rear glass, BBS wheels, manual rack-and-pinion steering, a lightweight battery, and a firmer suspension.

Photos: Bring a Trailer

>>Join the conversation about this Zanardi Edition NSX right here in Honda-Tech.com.

Sure Indication?

This is undoubtedly a rare and special car with a unique and interesting history. But does that make it worth over a quarter-million dollars? We have a hard time believing it, but who knows. Perhaps the Japanese car market is leaping to a new all-time high, and this is just a sign of what's to come. Or, maybe a couple of interested parties with the means just wanted this particular car that badly. 

Photos: Bring a Trailer