Acura NSX 1990-2005 3.2L Engine Engine Specifications
Acura NSX 1990-2005

Acura NSX 1990-2005 3.2L Engine Specifications

Detailed technical specifications and documentation for the 3.2L C32B V6 engine in the 1990-2005 Acura NSX. Includes performance metrics, maintenance guidelines, and component-specific details for enthusiasts and technicians.

Updated

3.2L Engine Specifications Overview Specifications

This document provides a comprehensive overview of the 3.2L engine specifications for the 1990-2005 Acura NSX. It includes detailed technical information, performance metrics, and maintenance requirements. Use this guide to understand the engine's capabilities, components, and operational parameters. Navigate through the sections to find specific information or use the quick reference section for key specifications.

How to Use

To search for specific information, use the search functionality by entering keywords related to the engine specifications. For example, type 'horsepower' or 'torque' to find relevant details.

Navigate through the sections by scrolling or using the section titles. Each section is divided into subsections with detailed technical points. Use the quick reference section for a summary of key specifications.

Key Specifications

Displacement

3.2L (3175 cc)

Horsepower

290 HP @ 7,100 rpm

Torque

224 lb-ft @ 5,300 rpm

Redline

7,200 rpm

Fuel Capacity

18.5 gallons

Available Specifications

Engine Overview

This section provides a general overview of the 3.2L engine, including its type, configuration, and key features. It serves as an introduction to the engine's design and capabilities.

Engine Type and Configuration
  • 3.2L V6 engine
  • DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft) design
  • 24 valves with VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
  • Aluminum alloy block and cylinder heads
  • Dry-sump lubrication system
Engine Management
  • Electronic fuel injection system
  • Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
  • Knock sensor for optimal fuel combustion
  • Cruise control integrated with engine management

Performance Specifications

This section details the performance metrics of the 3.2L engine, including horsepower, torque, and redline. It also covers fuel efficiency and acceleration capabilities.

Power and Torque
  • Maximum horsepower: 290 HP at 7,100 rpm
  • Maximum torque: 224 lb-ft at 5,300 rpm
  • Redline: 7,200 rpm
  • Power-to-weight ratio: 8.0 lb/hp
Fuel Efficiency
  • EPA estimated mileage: 17 mpg city, 23 mpg highway
  • Fuel capacity: 18.5 gallons
  • Recommended fuel: Premium unleaded gasoline (91 octane or higher)

Technical Features

This section highlights the advanced technical features of the 3.2L engine, including cooling systems, emissions control, and drivetrain components.

Cooling and Lubrication
  • Dual radiator cooling system
  • Electric cooling fans for improved efficiency
  • Dry-sump lubrication system with dual oil pumps
  • Oil cooler integrated with the engine
Emissions Control
  • Catalytic converter with three-way catalyst
  • Electronic fuel injection with oxygen sensor
  • Evaporative emissions control system
  • Complies with EPA and CARB standards

Maintenance Requirements

This section outlines the recommended maintenance schedule and procedures for the 3.2L engine, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

Routine Maintenance
  • Oil change interval: every 7,500 miles
  • Spark plug replacement: every 30,000 miles
  • Timing belt inspection: every 60,000 miles
  • Air filter replacement: every 15,000 miles
Specialized Maintenance
  • Valve clearance adjustment: every 30,000 miles
  • Fuel injector cleaning: every 60,000 miles
  • Coolant replacement: every 90,000 miles
  • Drive belt replacement: every 90,000 miles

Engine Specifications

Overview

Type
V6
Configuration
DOHC (Dual Overhead Camshaft)
Platform
Transverse layout
Material
Aluminum alloy block and cylinder head
Location
Mid-mounted

Dimensions

Displacement
3.2 liters (3179 cc)
Cylinder-Bore
90 mm (3.54 in)
Stroke
84 mm (3.31 in)
Length
30.3 in (770 mm)
Width
30.7 in (780 mm)
Height
28.3 in (719 mm)
Dry-Weight
259 lbs (117.5 kg)

Materials

Engine-Block
High-strength aluminum alloy
Cylinder-Head
Aluminum alloy with integrated camshaft
Pistons
Forged aluminum alloy
Crankshaft
Forged steel
Camshaft
Steel alloy
Valves
Titanium alloy

Features

Engine-Management
  • Programmed Fuel Injection (PGM-FI)
  • Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC)
  • Electronic Throttle Control
  • Knock sensors
  • Exhaust gas recirculation (EGR)
Performance
  • Dual overhead camshafts
  • Four valves per cylinder
  • Forged connecting rods
  • Steel timing chains
  • Hollow camshafts
Cooling-System
  • Water-cooled
  • Aluminum radiator
  • Dual cooling fans
  • Thermostat-controlled
  • Coolant reservoir with level sensor
Exhaust-System
  • Stainless steel exhaust manifold
  • High-flow catalytic converter
  • Dual exhaust pipes
  • Muffler with internal resonator
  • Heat shields
Lubrication
  • Wet-sump system
  • Electric oil pump
  • Oil cooler
  • Oil level sensor
  • Synthetic oil recommended

Safety Features

Airbags
  • Dual front airbags
  • Side airbags (later models)
  • Inflatable rollover protection
Braking
  • Anti-lock braking system (ABS)
  • Electronic brake force distribution (EBD)
  • Emergency brake assist
Structural
  • Reinforced space frame
  • Impact-absorbing crumple zones
  • Passenger protection cell
Safety-Restraints
  • 3-point seat belts with pretensioners
  • Seat belt force limiters
  • Passenger seat belt reminder

Comfort Features

interior
  • Climate control system
  • Automatic temperature control
  • Cruise control
  • Power windows
  • Power door locks
Seating
  • Heated seats
  • Adjustable lumbar support
  • Leather upholstery
  • Driver seat memory
infotainment
  • Premium sound system
  • CD player
  • Cassette player (early models)
  • Auxiliary input (later models)
Convenience
  • Remote keyless entry
  • Engine immobilizer
  • Trunk release
  • Steering wheel controls

Accessories

Engine-Accessories
  • Engine cover
  • Oil filler cap
  • Timing chain tensioner
  • Spark plug wires
  • Oil dipstick
Maintenance-Accessories
  • Service manual
  • Tool kit
  • Wheel chocks
  • Jack and jack stands
  • Torque wrench
Performance-Accessories
  • High-performance air filter
  • Aftermarket exhaust systems
  • Engine tuning software
  • Lightweight pulleys
  • Performance spark plugs

Maintenance

Service-interval
  • Oil change every 5,000 miles
  • Tire rotation every 7,500 miles
  • Brake fluid change every 30,000 miles
  • Spark plug replacement every 60,000 miles
  • Timing belt replacement at 90,000 miles
Maintenance-Notes
Regular maintenance recommended by certified Acura technicians. Use genuine Acura parts for replacements.

Warranty

Basic-Warranty
Miles: 36,000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Bumper-to-bumper
Powertrain-Warranty
Miles: 60,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Drivetrain components
Corrosion-Warranty
Miles: 60,000 miles
Years: 5 years
Coverage: Perforation of body panels
Accessories-Warranty
Miles: 36,000 miles
Years: 3 years
Coverage: Dealer-installed accessories

Production Details

Manufacturer
Honda Motor Co., Ltd.
Manufacturing-Process
  • CNC machining
  • Forging
  • Casting
  • Heat treatment
  • Precision assembly
Quality-Control
inspection: Final assembly line inspection
Testing: Dyno testing for power output
Certification: Compliance with emissions standards
Sustainability
Recyclable materials used in engine components. Compliant with CARB emissions standards.
Production-Metrics
Production-Years: 1990-2005
Units-Produced: Over 18,000 units
Assembly-Line: Takahashi Plant, Tochigi, Japan

Service Information for 3.2l engine Service

Maintenance and service requirements specific to this component

7,500 miles
6 months
  • Oil and filter change
  • Tire pressure check and adjustment
  • Brake pad inspection
  • Belts and hoses inspection
  • Battery terminals cleaning

Recommended service interval for normal driving conditions.

15,000 miles
12 months
  • Air filter replacement
  • Spark plug gap inspection
  • Cabin air filter replacement
  • Suspension system inspection
  • Steering system inspection

Intermediate service interval for moderate driving conditions.

30,000 miles
24 months
  • Timing belt inspection
  • Water pump inspection
  • Drive belts replacement
  • Fuel system cleaning
  • Exhaust system inspection

Major service interval. Special tools required for timing belt inspection.

Common Questions

Find answers to common questions about torque specifications

Q1

What is the horsepower and torque output of the 3.2L engine in the Acura NSX?

The 3.2L C32B V6 engine in the Acura NSX produces 290 horsepower at 7,100 rpm and 224 lb-ft of torque at 5,500 rpm. This engine features a DOHC design with VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) for optimized performance.

Q2

What is the recommended oil type and capacity for the 3.2L engine?

The 3.2L engine requires 5.5 quarts (5.2 liters) of 10W-30 synthetic oil. Always use high-quality synthetic oil that meets or exceeds API SN or ILSAC GF-5 standards for optimal engine performance and longevity.

Q3

What is the compression ratio of the 3.2L engine?

The 3.2L C32B engine has a compression ratio of 10.2:1. This high compression ratio contributes to the engine's efficiency and power output.

Q4

What is the recommended service interval for the timing belt on the 3.2L engine?

The timing belt on the 3.2L engine should be replaced every 90,000 miles or 7 years, whichever comes first. Failure to replace the timing belt can result in severe engine damage.

Q5

What type of fuel should be used in the 3.2L engine?

The 3.2L engine is designed to run on premium unleaded gasoline with an octane rating of 91 or higher. Using lower-octane fuel can result in reduced performance and potential engine knocking.

Q6

What is the firing order for the 3.2L engine?

The firing order for the 3.2L C32B engine is 1-4-2-5-3-6. This sequence ensures smooth engine operation and balanced power delivery.

Factory Service Resources

Access official service manuals, technical documents, and repair guides. These resources provide detailed procedures, specifications, and diagrams directly from the manufacturer.

Acura NSX 3.2L Engine Service Manual

Coming Soon

Official service manual for the 3.2L C32B engine, covering maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting procedures.

Timing Belt Replacement Guide for 3.2L Engine

Coming Soon

Step-by-step guide for replacing the timing belt on the 3.2L engine, including torque specifications and safety precautions.

Acura NSX 3.2L Engine Performance Tuning

Coming Soon

Technical guide on performance tuning options for the 3.2L engine, including ECU remapping and aftermarket parts.

Oil Change and Maintenance Schedule for 3.2L Engine

Coming Soon

Detailed maintenance schedule and oil change procedure for the 3.2L engine, ensuring optimal performance and longevity.

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Technical Information
  • All specifications, including torque values, fluid capacities, and maintenance procedures, should be verified against your vehicle's factory service manual.
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About the Author

Expert automotive knowledge and experience

Alan Montanye - Automotive Technical Specialist
ASE

Alan Montanye

Automotive Technical Specialist

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