The year 2026 is already heating up in Arizona when it comes to Japanese import performance.
Two specialty facilities in the Phoenix area hosted get-togethers for enthusiasts over the weekend of January 10-11. The first was ScienceofSpeed, a company that has been a leader in the Acura NSX performance realm since the 1990s. The “SoS” facility in Chandler, Arizona hosts a meetup each January geared toward Honda/Acura enthusiasts. On-site were a DJ and other forms of entertainment. The annual tradition brought out an array of cars, just a few of which are highlighted below.
1994 Honda Civic del Sol S
Honda’s compact two-seater, sold from 1993 through 1997, was known for innovative packaging. It had a removable targa top that was able to stow in the trunk while still leaving room for luggage. The car used Civic underpinnings throughout, and this red-wrapped “S” came from the factory with an energetic yet economical 1.5-liter SOHC inline-four.
1996 Honda Accord Wagon
The sixth-generation Accord station wagon was practical and well built. It came with an available manual transmission – unique for a family-hauler. This modified black wagon was even more special for a number of reasons, most notably its right-hand-drive (Japanese Domestic Market) configuration. The current owner added window visors, a rear spoiler, and bronze-finished four-spoke wheels to cap off the sleek look.
1998 Acura NSX-T
A two-seater with a devout enthusiast following, the first-generation NSX was sold from 1991 through 2005 in the United States and saw some enhancements along the way. Among them was the introduction of a removable targa top in 1994. This 1998 model in Monte Carlo Blue was a rare example – only 66 cars were built in that color. “NA2” (post-1997) NSXs came with a 290-horsepower 3.2-liter V6 when paired with a six-speed manual transmission.
2003 Honda S2000
The S2000 was a high-revving, rear-wheel-drive roadster sold from 1999 through 2009. It was known for its track-tuned chassis, double-wishbone suspension, and slick six-speed manual transmission (the only available transmission, by the way). This Berlina Black 2003 model came from the final year of what was known as the “AP1” series; it was powered by a 240-horsepower 2.0-liter inline-four with VTEC variable valve timing.
The following day, Hasport Performance (known for the slogan “Hot-Rodding Hondas since 1998”) hosted a get-together for enthusiasts at its Phoenix headquarters. Hasport has become known for its engine-swap components like motor mounts, but the company also runs a YouTube channel called VTEC Academy with over 168,000 subscribers. Host Brian Gillespie starts some episodes out with, “Welcome to VTEC Academy. You’re about to get schooled.”
1988 Honda Prelude
Model year 1988 marked the beginning of the Prelude’s third generation (which was sold through 1991). The Prelude was a tech-forward car for its time, boasting a sleek wedge-shaped silhouette with a low hoodline and pop-up headlights. A mechanical four-wheel steering system was offered (here’s a story and video on a car that had it!). For a fun, reliable driving experience, the Prelude was tough to beat. Honda brought the Prelude back for 2026, so nostalgia is strong.
1989 Honda CRX
The CRX was a fuel-sipper with a performance pedigree. It was only a two-seater, and on paper, it didn’t have a lot of power (even top-trim Si models made only 108 horsepower), but the CRX was beloved among enthusiasts for its fun-to-drive handling. This Barbados Yellow example looked relatively unmodified and lovingly kept!
1990 Honda Civic Wagon
Sometimes called the “Wagovan,” the fourth-generation Civic wagon had a roomy cabin with fold-flat rear seats. It was a versatile car for its time, and all-wheel drive versions were available, too. This vivid example in burnt orange received light restoration (and mechanical work to the 1.5-liter SOHC inline-four) under prior ownership. It looked stunning inside and out.
1998 Acura Integra Type R
The “DC2” Integra Type R was a legendary performance coupe. We talked in recent years about how popular it has become in enthusiast circles. The key to the Type R’s success was its powertrain: Under the hood was a high-revving 1.8-liter VTEC inline-four that was rated at 195 horsepower. The car also had a limited-slip differential, a track-tuned suspension, and lightweight construction compared to the mainstream Integra.
It was fun to see people getting out and about in their classic Hondas to enjoy the weekend!
Are you a current or prior owner of any of these Hondas and Acuras of yesteryear? Let me know in the Comments section below.