Accord Concept Coupe

Honda proved its commitment to the aftermarket at the 2002 SEMA Show with this spectacularly transmogrified version of the new 2003 Accord Coupe.

The changes start under hood where the 3.0-liter VTEC V6 is ditched in favor of the 3.2-liter version from the Acura CL Type-S. Thanks to some twisting of the intake tract and exhaust system, the engine's output busts up to 300 hp and it's all sent through a six-speed manual transmission and limited-slip differential to the front wheels. Braking is handled by eight-piston Brembos up front; the suspension is, of course, lowered and the track has been widened. Some of that width is due to the 20-in. black chrome wheels wrapped in Bridgestone Potenza S-03 235/45ZR-20 tires.

But as tantalizing as the drivetrain and suspension is, the most arresting part of this "NSX spa yellow" 'Cord is the Honda-designed body kit, consisting of bumpers, fender flares, body sills, rear wing, a grille and underbody diffuser. One subtlety that might be missed is the black chrome finish on the head- and taillights.

Inside, Honda has added F1-style paddle shifters behind the three-spoke steering wheel, a prototype "multi-function" meter display, Sparco Kevlar seats covered in Alcantara suede, some harnesses and aluminum pedals.