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News12 September 2024 by Andreas 85 Viewed

Honda HP-X Makes 40-Year Comeback at Monterey Car Week

TORRANCE, Calif., July 31, 2024 — Honda is reviving a piece of automotive history with the North American debut of its pioneering concept car, the Honda HP-X, at the prestigious Monterey Car Week next month. Designed and built by the acclaimed Italian design firm Pininfarina, the avant-garde HP-X (Honda Pininfarina eXperimental) will make its first public appearance in decades at the 73rd annual Pebble Beach Concours d’Elegance on Sunday, August 18, 2024.

The HP-X, which last captivated audiences at the 1984 Turin Auto Show, was instrumental in shaping the future of Honda’s performance vehicles. Following a thorough restoration at Pininfarina’s workshops in Cambiano, Italy, this radical wedge-shaped concept car will be featured in the Concours’ wedge-shaped concept and prototype class.

“The Honda HP-X was a groundbreaking model in 1984, showcasing revolutionary engineering and design with its extreme wedge shape,” said Dave Marek, Acura design executive and honorary judge at the Concours. “Its visionary approach had a significant impact on the industry, underscoring our dedication to pushing the limits of automotive design.”

The HP-X boasted advanced aerodynamics, including ground effects and innovative cooling solutions for its centrally mounted 2.0-liter, 24-valve DOHC V6 engine, derived from a Honda F2 racing engine. The concept car featured a unique one-piece removable Perspex canopy, styled after jet fighters, and a rear fairing that functioned as both an aerodynamic enhancer and a driver-controlled air brake. Additionally, the HP-X utilized cutting-edge materials such as honeycomb panels, carbon fiber, and Kevlar to optimize weight and performance.

Inside, the HP-X pushed the boundaries of comfort and technology. It was equipped with an “electronic driver support system” featuring real-time telemetry, GPS, and road condition alerts via “special sonar”—advanced technologies that are now standard.

“The HP-X exemplifies Pininfarina’s talent for presenting innovative ideas through trendsetting concept cars,” said Felix Kilbertus, Chief Creative Officer of Pininfarina. “At Pininfarina, we aim to infuse every project with our design excellence while preserving the essence of the collaborating brand. Although the HP-X didn’t go into production, its influence on future Honda models and the broader automotive landscape is undeniable, reflecting the innovative spirit of both Honda and Pininfarina.”

As a testbed for new ideas and technologies, the HP-X paved the way for advancements seen in subsequent Honda and Acura models, particularly the mid-engine NSX, which debuted a few years later. The first-generation NSX embodied many of the innovations first explored in the HP-X, cementing its legacy in automotive history.

the author

Andreas

Italian classic car enthusiast with German roots. Renowned as a respected figure in the classic car community, he serves as a jury member at various international concours d'elegance, including the Classic Gala Schwetzingen and Mantova. As a content creator, Andreas passionately shares his profound knowledge and appreciation for vintage automobiles. His heart beats for cars designed by Giovanni Michelotti, showcasing his discerning taste and dedication to preserving the timeless elegance of automotive history.

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If you are looking at used car financing, certified pre-owned (CPO) vehicles are a great alternative to traditional secondhand vehicles. Affordable and with quality assurance, these vehicles are an attractive choice for buyers who want reliability and peace of mind. In this guide, we’ll take a look at the unique benefits of financing a CPO car versus a regular used vehicle.

What Defines a Certified Pre-Owned Car?

Certified pre-owned cars are different from regular used cars because they undergo a rigorous inspection and are certified by the manufacturer. These vehicles typically are reconditioned to strict quality standards and are most often late model, low mileage vehicles. For cars sold through authorised dealers only, it holds the classification of quality above that of a usual secondhand seller.

How Do Warranties Add Value?

One of the greatest advantages of CPO cars is that they come with extended warranties. Additional coverage is often provided by manufacturers beyond the original factory warranty, covering major components like the engine, transmission, and electrical systems.

For buyers, this means fewer unexpected expenses. The fact that critical repairs are covered brings instant confidence to the purchase, and removes some of the long term expense related to owning a vehicle.

The Appeal of Comprehensive Inspections

CPO cars are unlike ordinary used vehicles in that they have been subject to an extensive multi-point inspection before reaching the sales lot. Every part, from the drivetrain to the interior features, is evaluated and reconditioned to meet specific benchmarks for safety and performance, and mechanics do the evaluating and reconditioning.

This detailed assessment reduces the chance of hidden problems and gives buyers peace of mind when buying an investment that may not be in the best condition.

Why Certified Pre-Owned Cars Are Ideal for Financing

CPO vehicles are often safer bets for financing than regular used cars, which is often why lenders will finance them. They are less risky investments because the added reliability and warranty coverage make them a less risky investment, which can mean more favorable loan terms.

Financing a CPO car can mean lower interest rates, extended repayment periods, or even smaller down payments for applicants. These advantages could lead to substantial savings over time for those exploring used car financing.

Comparing Costs: CPO vs. Regular Used Cars

CPO cars tend to fetch higher prices than non-certified models, but many of those premiums are worth it. By saving upfront with standard used cars, buyers may save upfront but they’ll also have unpredictable repair bills down the road.

If financing, the added monthly payment cost might almost be worth the reduced maintenance expense and lengthened protection warranty coverage of a CPO vehicle. This decision is important, and it is important to evaluate the total cost of ownership.

Are There Drawbacks to Consider?

Certified pre-owned cars have a lot of advantages, but they may not be for everyone. It limits the availability of choices for models, trims, or colors. The higher price tag might also prevent shoppers on a tight budget from buying.

These factors need to be weighed against the peace of mind and reduced risk that comes with CPO cars. That trade is fine for some people; others may not be willing to sacrifice cost savings for extra security.

Financing Tips for CPO Cars

When financing a certified pre-owned car, certain strategies can help maximize the benefits:

  • Compare Loan Offers: Seek quotes from multiple lenders to secure the most competitive rates.
  • Evaluate Dealership Financing: Many dealerships offer financing incentives, including reduced interest rates for CPO purchases.
  • Understand the Warranty: Familiarize yourself with the warranty details to know exactly what’s covered.
  • Negotiate the Price: While certified vehicles come with added value, there’s often room for negotiation.
  • These steps ensure a financing arrangement that aligns with both your budget and long-term needs.

The Long-Term Benefits of CPO Ownership

Owning a certified pre-owned car provides more than just immediate savings. These vehicles often retain value better than standard used cars due to their condition and warranty coverage.

Additionally, the lower likelihood of mechanical issues allows owners to enjoy their vehicle with fewer disruptions. This combination of reliability and financial predictability makes CPO cars an excellent choice for many drivers.

Making the Right Decision for Your Needs

Certified pre-owned vehicles represent a smart option for buyers seeking a balance of affordability, dependability, and added protection. When combined with the right financing plan, they offer a path to vehicle ownership that minimizes risk and enhances value. For those weighing their options in the realm of used car financing, CPO cars provide a level of security and quality that is hard to match.

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