Is the Modified Honda NSX Worth the Hype? – Inside Shaun Quinn’s Twin‑Turbo Build

Why is a modified Honda NSX a headline‑grabbing project?

The Honda NSX has long been a polarising name in the automotive world – a Japanese supercar that could challenge Ferraris on the track while still being reliable enough for daily driving. When a specialist tuner decides to push that platform even further, the result inevitably draws curiosity from enthusiasts searching for answers such as “Is a modified Honda NSX worth it?” or “What does a twin‑turbo NSX deliver?” This article unpacks the story behind Shaun Quinn’s ultra‑aggressive build, the technical details that set it apart, and why the hype is justified.

The legend of the original Honda NSX

First shown at the 1989 Chicago Auto Show, the NSX stunned onlookers with an all‑aluminium V6 that produced 270 bhp at 7,300 rpm and a wet weight of just 1,340 kg. The mid‑engine, quad‑cam VTEC unit offered supercar performance in a package that behaved like a high‑spec Civic – a combination that famously annoyed Ferrari and attracted a celebrity following. Ayrton Senna helped fine‑tune the chassis, and owners have included Gordon Murray, Eddie Jordan, Tom Cruise, Alex Zanardi, Scottie Pippen and Chuck Yeager. Only about 20,000 were built over a sixteen‑year run, making the NSX a relatively rare, daily‑drivable legend.

Shaun Quinn – a Honda modding veteran

Shaun Quinn has become a recognisable name in the UK Honda scene, largely thanks to his EK Civic project which has featured in Fast Car magazine on four separate occasions. The Civic’s evolving specifications – from a ninja‑purple, S2000‑styled hatch to a later AMG‑green incarnation with carbon wings – demonstrate Shaun’s willingness to reinvent a platform repeatedly. That same relentless creativity underpins his decision to take on the NSX, a car that sits at the opposite end of the performance spectrum.

From Japan to the UK – acquiring the base car

The NSX Shaun eventually purchased had arrived in the UK from Japan in 2014. It carried the usual signs of a well‑traveled import: a few dents, faded paint, missing interior trim and a prior white repaint. Despite its rough condition, the chassis and engine were sound, and the price fit Shaun’s budget, allowing him to commence a full strip‑down and rebuild.

The build process – paint, bodywork and aerodynamics

Shaun and a small team began by removing the interior and exterior components, then tackled a bold colour change. Opting for a eye‑catching Lexus Naples Yellow Pearl, Shaun applied a three‑stage pearl finish himself – a first‑time effort on a super‑rare vehicle that highlights his confidence and hands‑on approach.

Beyond paint, the car now boasts a Zero Force carbon widebody with aggressive flares, a custom rear hatch, a roof‑mounted scoop and a bespoke exhaust system. Every aerodynamic element was fabricated in‑house or heavily modified, because standard NSX parts are scarce and expensive.

Bespoke wheels and suspension – the twin‑turbo statement

The original setup featured staggered 8×18 in front and 10×19 in rear cast wheels. Shaun’s team re‑engineered these into unique three‑piece split rims, now measuring 9.5×20 in up front and a monstrous 11.5×21 in at the rear. Combined with a custom air‑ride suspension, the stance underlines the project’s “no‑rules” ethos.

While the article’s headline mentions “two turbos”, the build’s primary focus was on creating a visual and performance masterpiece that would stand out in any showroom or track day. All components, from the carbon‑fibre body pieces to the exhaust, were hand‑crafted or extensively customised, making this the only NSX known to sport such extreme specifications.

Why this build stands out in the tuner world

Most Honda enthusiasts consider the NSX a collector’s item, but few attempt a full‑scale transformation. Shaun’s approach – combining a rare platform with a DIY paint job, carbon‑fibre aerodynamics and one‑off wheels – demonstrates that even a supercar can become a canvas for personal expression. The project also underscores the challenges of sourcing NSX parts, reinforcing the necessity for custom fabrication.

For readers asking “Is a modified Honda NSX worth the investment?” the answer lies in the singular nature of the car: a daily‑drivable supercar, uniquely styled, and built by a recognised specialist who has a track record of turning Honda platforms into headline‑making machines.

Conclusion – belief in the hype

Shaun Quinn’s twin‑turbo NSX epitomises the blend of performance heritage and modder audacity that defines the modern Japanese tuner scene. From its origins as a groundbreaking 1989 supercar to its current, radically customised state, the vehicle proves that the Honda NSX’s reputation for reliability and excitement can be amplified without losing its core identity. Whether you’re a collector, a fan of bespoke engineering, or simply curious about extreme car builds, this project offers a compelling case study in what can be achieved when enthusiasm meets skill.