The large increase in cornering power reminded us how underpowered the TSX is, largely because our TSX is fully loaded. And while the TSX looks undeniably cool with tucked tires, we might play around with ride height, particularly in the rear, and perhaps spring rate to produce a ride a bit more appropriate for a semi-luxurious cruiser. That Project TSX is this slammed and still rides better than most of our project cars is a testament to the superiority of double-wishbone suspensions.
Aftermarket mavens have made short work of modifying the K-series engine born to replace the venerable B series and filling the TSX's engine bay. There are dumbed down and hot rod versions of both the K20 and K24, and the TSX is the only Honda product to receive both the long stroke K24 and the full i-VTEC head, for a purported 200-crank hp. The one drivetrain modification made thus far is the addition of a Skunk2 short shifter, complete with a hard-anodized knob. Shift feel is precise and excellent, and the knob looks great. Given Skunk2's relationships in the motorsport world and the fact that at the time of this writing, they hold the Battle of the Imports all-motor record with a K-series-powered RSX, our TSX will be well-handled.
Put simply, the TSX is a nice car to drive. It's comfortable, quiet, will practically rub your feet if you ask it right, and as modified by Skunk2, looks damn good. Fellow drivers cornered us in parking lots and motioned at traffic lights to offer their compliments. One enthusiastic Jetta owner on dubs asked if we had airbags on the car, so it's obvious this car will wow the show car crowd as much as the go-car crowd.
With a price tag starting in the mid-$20Ks, the TSX offers impressive interior refinement, and if you crest the $30K mark, does its damnest to approach one of our favorites, the TL. Project TSX is generously outfitted in supple leather with a kickin' stereo, voice-activated and touch-screen navigation, and even a frigging factory DVD/MP3 player with fold-down screen for the rear passenger compartment.
Stay tuned for future installments, where we go slightly out of character to give Project TSX big power, a facelift and interior treatment. Martha's still in jail, so floral prints need not be feared.