Honda is entering the realm of selling, restoring, maintaining, and even assisting you in tracking some of its most legendary race cars from Le Mans, Sebring, and Daytona. As illustrated below, its selections aren’t just confined to production-based GT vehicles, but also encompass fully dedicated, purpose-built prototype race cars. The only way I could feel more thrilled is if I could actually purchase one of them myself.
Honda Racing Corporation is offering some impressive machines for sale, and while it hasn’t revealed prices or how it will select its customers, it did disclose the first car it’s putting on the market, along with some of its latest restorations for private clients.
Set to make its on-sale introduction at The Quail this Friday during the 2026 Monterey Car Week celebrations, the Sebring-winning V8-powered #26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a will be at the forefront of HRC’s new initiative for a very special purpose. This attractive racer was Acura’s inaugural purpose-built race car and also features the first V8 created and developed by HRC in the U.S. (then HPD). This chassis clinched the LMP2 category in its first race at the 2007 Sebring 12 Hours, driven by Dario Franchitti, Bryan Herta, and Tony Kanaan.
“Classic race cars never fade away; their legends and allure simply expand, and the HRC Heritage Racing Program is dedicated to ensuring our remarkable Honda and Acura race cars continue to do what they were built for―which is to race,” stated David Salters, president of HRC US. “As the creator of these championship-winning machines and the steward of the original intellectual property and knowledge, HRC is uniquely positioned to restore them to their original state, guaranteeing they can re-enter historical racing competitions authentically and ready to be experienced by our patrons and fans.”
A component of HRC US’s fresh venture includes restoring vintage race cars, whether they’re owned by the company and renovated as part of a sale or already in the possession of individuals. One instance of its restoration capability is the ARX-01c depicted above, which competed in the Le Mans LMP2 category with “Strakka Racing” and secured its class victory in 2010. A similar situation applies to the Acura NSX GT3 Chassis No. 5 shown below, along with the 2001 Reynard 01i raced in the CART 2001 season by Gil de Ferran for Team Penske, which has undergone a complete refurbishment that I’m sure its current owner (Zak Brown) monitored closely.
It’s exciting to witness Honda and Acura embark on this initiative through HRC US. The establishment of this new project, spearheaded by HRC US president Dave Salters and senior vice president Jon Ikeda, has been in development for several years and is a priority for Honda’s management. This not only opens an essential revenue stream for a brand aiming to expand within the dynamic motorsport landscape in North America but also lets fans witness some of the brand’s iconic race cars in action once again.
HRC is also entering the market of aftermarket performance components, apparel, and consumables like motor oil.
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**Honda to Offer Legendary Race Cars from Le Mans, Daytona, and Indy**
In a pioneering step that has captured the attention of motorsport fans and collectors alike, Honda has revealed intentions to sell a curated selection of its legendary race cars that have made history in esteemed events such as Le Mans, Daytona, and the Indianapolis 500. This move not only underscores Honda’s rich racing legacy but also presents a rare chance for enthusiasts and collectors to possess a piece of automotive history.
**Honda’s Motorsport Legacy**
Honda’s engagement in motorsport traces back to the early 1960s, and over the years, the brand has positioned itself as a formidable contender in various racing arenas. From endurance racing at Le Mans to the high-speed excitement of NASCAR at Daytona and the open-wheel thrills of IndyCar, Honda’s engineering excellence and commitment to performance have yielded numerous wins and recognitions.
**Legendary Models Available**
The array of race cars up for sale includes a number of iconic models that have made a lasting impact on the racing scene:
1. **Honda RA272**: This Formula One vehicle, which competed in the early 1960s, is famed for its innovative engineering and historical importance as Honda’s inaugural F1 entry. It secured Honda’s first win in the sport at the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix.
2. **Honda NSX GT500**: A leading competitor in the Super GT series, the NSX GT500 has demonstrated Honda’s performance capabilities on the race track. Its elegant design and powerful engine have made it a fan favorite and a representation of Honda’s racing achievements.
3. **Honda HPD ARX-01**: Competing in the American Le Mans Series, the HPD ARX-01 is a prototype race vehicle that exemplifies Honda’s dedication to endurance racing. With numerous class victories, it illustrates Honda’s engineering superiority in long-distance competitions.
4. **Honda IndyCar**: Honda’s involvement in the IndyCar series has been marked by a series of wins and championships. The IndyCar models listed for sale are testaments to Honda’s innovation in open-wheel racing, integrating state-of-the-art technology and performance.
**Auction Process**
Honda plans to auction these iconic race cars through a series of events, inviting collectors and fans to bid on their preferred models. The auction will include comprehensive documentation, featuring race histories, technical details, and provenance, ensuring that buyers possess a thorough understanding of the vehicles’ importance.
**Maintaining Racing Traditions**
By marketing these race cars, Honda seeks to uphold its rich racing traditions while establishing a deeper bond with fans and collectors. Every vehicle signifies not just a machine but a narrative of victory, innovation, and the unwavering pursuit of excellence that characterizes Honda’s racing ethos.
**In Conclusion**
Honda’s decision to offer its legendary race cars from Le Mans, Daytona, and Indy signals a momentous occasion in the automotive and motorsport arena. As collectors gear up to bid on these iconic vehicles, the sale highlights Honda’s lasting legacy in racing and its dedication to sharing that legacy with future generations. Whether for display purposes or restoration, these cars are sure to continue igniting passion and admiration among motorsport aficionados worldwide.
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