The Honda C30A3 is a 2,977 cc, 60° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1997 and 2001. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) with 24 valves and Honda's VTEC variable valve timing system. This design prioritized high-revving performance and broad power delivery, producing 206 kW (280 PS) and 294 Nm of torque.
Fitted exclusively to the first-generation Honda NSX (NA1 chassis), the C30A3 was engineered for supercar-level responsiveness, precision, and driver engagement. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through precise fuel metering and a dual-stage catalytic converter system, allowing it to meet applicable Japanese and North American standards of the late 1990s.
One documented service concern is premature wear of the clutch release bearing in manual transmission models, which can lead to clutch disengagement issues. This issue, addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 99-045, is attributed to specific heat soak characteristics and lubrication properties under high-performance driving conditions. Revised bearing materials were introduced in the 2000 model year.
Honda
Production years 1997–2001 meet applicable Japanese 1998 Emissions Standards and US EPA Tier 1 regulations for its model year (Honda Emissions Certification Docs).
The Honda C30A3 is a 2,977 cc 60° V6 naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for the flagship NSX supercar (1997-2001). It combines VTEC variable valve timing with a 24-valve DOHC layout to deliver exhilarating, high-RPM power and razor-sharp throttle response. Designed to meet late-1990s emissions standards, it balances exotic performance with Honda's hallmark reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 2,977 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | 60° V6, DOHC, 24-valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 90.0 mm × 78.0 mm | |
| Power output | 206 kW (280 PS) @ 7,300 rpm | |
| Torque | 294 Nm @ 6,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Honda PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Japanese 1998 Standards / US EPA Tier 1 | |
| Compression ratio | 10.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SJ/SL, SAE 5W-30 | |
| Dry weight | 192 kg |
The VTEC system provides a dramatic surge in power above 5,800 rpm, ideal for track use but demands premium fuel and meticulous maintenance. Strict adherence to 90,000 km timing belt replacement intervals is critical, as it is an interference design. Using the specified 5W-30 API SJ/SL oil is essential for protecting the high-revving valvetrain and VTEC mechanism. The clutch release bearing in manual models is susceptible to heat-related wear; aggressive driving accelerates this, warranting inspection per Honda SIB 99-045.
Oil Specs: Requires API SJ/SL specification (Honda Owner's Manual 1997). Modern equivalents (e.g., API SP) are backward compatible but SJ/SL was the contemporary standard.
Emissions: Certification applies to 1997-2001 model years for respective markets (Honda Emissions Certification Docs).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Output is consistent across global markets for this variant (Honda Group PT-1997).
Honda Technical Service Manual (TSM): C30A3 Engine
Honda Service Information Bulletins (SIB): 97-033, 99-045
Honda Parts Catalogue (EPC): H-97-NA
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda C30A3 was used exclusively in Honda's NA1 platform with mid-engine, transverse mounting. This engine received no platform-specific adaptations across its production run, ensuring parts uniformity. All service procedures and specifications are documented in a single, dedicated OEM technical manual.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the left cylinder bank, near the alternator (Honda TSM C30A3). The 8th VIN digit for NA1 chassis indicates engine displacement ('C' for 3.0L). The C30A3 can be visually identified by its twin camshaft covers on each bank and the "C30A3" casting on the block. Critical differentiation from the earlier C30A: C30A3 features a revised intake manifold and ECU for increased power. The clutch release bearing is a known wear item; verify part number against production date for the updated version (Honda SIB 99-045).
The C30A3's primary documented reliability concern is clutch release bearing wear in manual transmission models, with elevated incidence in high-performance or track-driven examples. Honda service data indicated a notable number of replacements were required after 80,000 km in aggressively driven vehicles, while owner reports frequently cite clutch pedal issues as a precursor. Heat soak from the mid-engine layout is a contributing factor.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1997-2001) and aggregated owner repair data (2000-2010). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA C30A3.
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