Back to the Future: Inside Amir Bentatou's Record-Breaking Time Attack NSX
Amir Bentatou's record-setting Acura NSX transformed from a conventional sports car into a time attack champion through innovative engineering and persistent development.
Racing NSX with sponsor logos
The most significant modification was replacing the original C30A engine with a K20Z1 powerplant, despite initial skepticism from NSX purists. This controversial swap reduced displacement by 33% but opened new performance possibilities.
NSX sports car cockpit view
The K20Z1 engine build includes:
- Arias 86mm pistons
- Brian Crower connecting rods
- 9.5:1 compression ratio
- Drag Cartel 2.2 camshafts
- Supertech valvetrain
- Garrett G30-770 turbocharger
- Custom intake system
- Koyorad water-to-air heat exchanger
- Pracworks intake manifold
Honda NSX engine bay close-up
The powertrain produces 424 horsepower at 7,500 rpm and 392 lb-ft of torque, managed by:
- KPro engine management
- Aeromotive A1000 fuel pump
- Injector Dynamics ID1700X injectors
- E85 fuel system
NSX engine bay showing air intake
Key performance components include:
- Samsonas 6-speed dog box transmission
- KAAZ 1.5-way Limited Slip Differential
- KW Competition suspension
- Rays ZE40 wheels (18x10.5 front, 18x12 rear)
- Yokohama Advan A052 tires
- Stoptech braking system
The aerodynamic package features:
- Spoon Sports R-GT front and rear bumpers
- RS Future front splitter and LM Wing
- Marga Hills side skirts and rear fenders
- Midnight Purple 2 paint by ABS Autobody
NSX race car in garage
Having achieved multiple records in street class competition, the car is now transitioning to unlimited class racing, marking the end of its street-class era and the beginning of a new chapter in its racing evolution.
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