The Value of Star Power
Aside from limited production and extreme powertrains, film provenance can also help increase a car’s value. That’s evident in cars like the original Batmobile from the 1966 TV series, which sold for $4.62 million in 2013. This time, however, the spotlight turns to the Marvel Cinematic Universe, with an Acura NSX Roadster Concept used in 2012’s The Avengers now up for auction.
In the movie, the NSX Roadster Concept was driven by Tony Stark (played by Robert Downey Jr.), who was known for putting the Audi R8 on the big screen in the earlier Iron Man movies. The car has been listed on Cars & Bids by Acura itself, which said that 100% of the winning bid proceeds will go to a charity mutually agreed upon with the buyer. The Japanese luxury marque will also contribute to the Sundance Institute to support independent filmmakers and artists.
More Than Meets the Armor
Because the first Avengers movie came out in 2012, this car isn’t based on the production second-generation NSX, which debuted in 2016. Instead, the design, courtesy of Acura’s Advanced Design Studio, was inspired by the second-gen NSX Concept, while the underpinnings came from a first-gen model. The original NSX was so iconic that it challenged Ferrari’s dominance in the exotic car market in the 1990s, with three-time Formula 1 World Champion Ayrton Senna helping with its development.
This means the NSX Roadster Concept for sale comes with a 3.0-liter VTEC V6 engine, not the twin-turbo hybrid powertrain in the second-gen NSX, despite looking like one. The engine makes about 270 horsepower and 210 lb-ft of torque and is paired with a 5-speed manual transmission.
The exterior features custom resin and fiberglass bodywork built by Trans FX, finished in a paint color matching Iron Man’s armor. It also features the “STARK 33” license plate that appeared in the movie.
An Avenger Goes Under the Hammer
It’s worth noting, however, that the NSX Roadster Concept – which has clocked about 252,000 miles – cannot be registered, titled, or driven on public roads. That means the new owner will primarily be getting a collector’s item, which can be displayed in private collections or at car events. As of this writing, the bid stands at $98,500, with the auction set to end on October 31.
Before the car goes to a new home, Acura will display it at the Las Vegas Concours alongside the Nexera Vision. The Nexera Vision represents a new design direction for the brand, with futuristic elements and bodywork reminiscent of a Ferrari or McLaren. Its new lighting signature is expected to debut on the next-gen RDX Hybrid, one of several upcoming Acura models, alongside an adventure-focused model – reportedly based on a Honda Passport – and an eight-seater flagship SUV.
