Honda is unlocking its vault and offering for sale legendary race cars from Le Mans, Daytona, and Indy.

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      Honda is stepping into the market of selling, restoring, maintaining, and even helping you keep track of some of its most legendary race cars from events like Le Mans, Sebring, and Daytona. The range of options available is not just confined to production-based GT cars but also includes fully-fledged, purpose-built prototype race cars. The only thing that would make me happier is if I could purchase one of these cars myself.

      Honda Racing Corporation is offering some impressive machinery for sale. While the company hasn’t disclosed prices or criteria for selecting clients, it has announced the first car available for purchase and showcased some of its recent restorations for private clients.

      Making its debut for sale at The Quail this Friday during the 2026 Monterey Car Week celebrations is the #26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a, a Sebring-winning V8-powered car. This eye-catching racer is significant as it was Acura’s first purpose-built race car and also features the first V8 engine designed and developed by HRC in the U.S. (then known as HPD). This chassis secured victory in the LMP2 class during its inaugural outing at the 2007 Sebring 12 Hours, piloted by Dario Franchitti, Bryan Herta, and Tony Kanaan.

      "Classic race cars never fade away; their legacy and mystique only grow, and the HRC Heritage Racing Program is dedicated to ensuring our remarkable Honda and Acura race cars continue doing what they were built for—racing," stated David Salters, president of HRC US. "As the creator of these championship-winning machines and keeper of the original intellectual property and expertise, HRC is uniquely suited to restore them to their original specifications, guaranteeing they can compete authentically in historic racing events and be enjoyed by our customers and fans."

      HRC US's new business also encompasses the restoration of vintage race cars, whether they are owned by the company and prepared for sale or already in the hands of individuals. One example of their restoration skills is the ARX-01c, which competed in the Le Mans LMP2 category with “Strakka Racing” and claimed its class victory in 2010. A similar narrative surrounds the Acura NSX GT3 Chassis No. 5 and the 2001 Reynard 01i that was raced in the CART 2001 season by Gil de Ferran for Team Penske, both of which have received comprehensive refurbishments that I’m sure their current owner (Zak Brown) has monitored closely.

      It’s exciting to witness Honda and Acura engage in this business through HRC US. The establishment of this new venture, spearheaded by HRC US president Dave Salters and senior vice president Jon Ikeda, has been years in the making and is a top priority for Honda's leadership. This initiative not only opens a vital revenue source for a brand aiming to expand its presence in the growing motorsport scene in North America but also allows fans to see some of the brand's iconic race cars in action once again.

      Additionally, HRC is exploring the aftermarket performance parts sector, fashion, and consumable products like motor oil.

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