Since its inception in 2002, the Acura RSX has firmly established itself within the competitive sports coupe market, particularly resonating with the vibrant “tuner” community. Acura offered the RSX in two compelling trims: the sporty RSX and the high-performance RSX Type-S. This coupe served as a crucial entry point to the Acura brand, introducing a younger generation of driving enthusiasts to Acura’s signature blend of precision-crafted performance and luxury vehicles.
The RSX quickly garnered industry accolades, earning spots on Car and Driver’s prestigious “10 Best” list and Ward’s 10 Best Engines roster. With their potent engines, generous array of luxury features, cutting-edge safety and security systems, and innovative designs for both the cockpit and body, the RSX and RSX Type-S models set a bold benchmark for driving excitement and sophistication in the sports coupe category.
For the 2005 model year, Acura implemented significant enhancements across both the RSX and RSX Type-S, aiming to elevate this benchmark even further. These upgrades were guided by three core objectives:
- Amplify the Already Impressive Performance of the Type-S Model: This was achieved by boosting horsepower and refining the 6-speed manual transmission.
- Enhance Handling Precision and Ride Comfort for Both Models: Optimizations were made to the suspension, steering, and braking systems to realize this goal.
- Accentuate the Aggressive Yet Refined Character of the RSX: Interior and exterior styling enhancements were introduced to underscore this duality.
The standard RSX is propelled by a 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, delivering 160 horsepower at 6500 rpm and 141 lb-ft of torque at 4000 rpm. Transmission options for the RSX include a 5-speed manual or an available 5-speed Sequential SportShift automatic.
However, the 2005 Rsx Type S received special attention under the hood. Modifications to the intake, exhaust, and emissions systems of its 16-valve, DOHC i-VTEC 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine resulted in a power increase to 210 horsepower at 7800 rpm (up from 200 hp at 7400 rpm in the previous model) and 143 lb-ft of torque at 7000 rpm (increased from 142 lb-ft at 6000 rpm). The Type-S exclusively features a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. To complement these engine performance gains, the final gear ratio of this 6-speed manual was shortened by 8.6 percent, resulting in quicker acceleration. Furthermore, single cone carbon synchronizers replaced double cone brass synchronizers on fifth and sixth gears, providing a more direct shift feel and reducing mechanical losses within the transmission.
To meet the discerning expectations of modern drivers, both RSX models are equipped with a sport-tuned suspension system. For 2005, this system underwent substantial retuning to amplify the RSX’s fun-to-drive character. Revised suspension, steering, and braking systems, coupled with increased front and rear body rigidity, translate to even more responsive handling while simultaneously enhancing ride comfort.
A notable upgrade for the 2005 RSX Type S is the introduction of standard 17-inch alloy wheels, an increase from the previous 16-inch wheels. These are paired with Michelin 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires, which provide improved traction and a more assertive stance within the wheel wells.
To harmonize with the revised suspension, body rigidity was augmented at both the front and rear through reinforcements in critical areas, including suspension mounting points. Additional insulation material in the roof and doors effectively reduces road noise, while a dynamic damper integrated into the front subframe minimizes engine rocking and vibration transmitted to the cabin from the engine.
Building upon its driver-centric ethos, the RSX features a dynamic, “driver-tuned” cockpit. For 2005, this cockpit was refreshed with chrome and titanium-look accents, upgraded materials throughout, and redesigned front seats engineered to provide enhanced support and comfort.
Exterior styling enhancements for the 2005 RSX Type S and the base model include redesigned front and rear fascias and side sills. Additionally, the RSX Type-S model received a new deck lid spoiler, contributing to a sportier, more aggressive aesthetic and improved aerodynamics.
Summary of Changes for the 2005 RSX and 2005 RSX Type S
Both the RSX and 2005 RSX Type S models benefited from a range of enhancements for the 2005 model year. These updates collectively refined the driving experience and elevated the vehicle’s overall appeal.
RSX / 2005 RSX Type S – Shared Upgrades:
- Revised Suspension Tuning: For increased handling precision and a smoother ride.
- Ride height lowered by 7 mm.
- Optimized damper and spring settings.
- Firmer stabilizer bars (front and rear for Type-S, front for RSX).
- Optimized bushings at suspension installation points.
- Inversely wound front coil springs.
- Refined Steering System: For enhanced feel and quicker response.
- Quicker steering ratio.
- Stiffer steering column.
- Pump flow increased by seven percent.
- Kickback reduction valve.
- Optimized Braking System: For enhanced stopping power and feel.
- Pedal stroke decreased.
- Master cylinder diameter increased.
- Brake pedal rigidity increased.
- Larger Diameter Wheels and Tires: 17-inch alloy wheels and 215/45R17 all-season high-performance tires.
- Increased Body Rigidity: Body rigidity increased by 15 percent in the front and 21 percent in the rear through reinforcements in key areas.
- NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) Reduction:
- Engine damper added to the front subframe to reduce engine rocking and vibration.
- Insulation material added to doors and roof to reduce road noise.
- Side-mirror gaps sealed and weather strip added.
- More Aggressive Exterior Styling:
- New front and rear bumper designs.
- Redesigned headlight and taillight assemblies.
- Restyled signature 5-sided Acura grille.
- Redesigned side sill garnish.
- Four new exterior colors: Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Jade Green Metallic, Blaze Orange Metallic.
- Freshened Interior Design:
- Deeply bolstered front seats with thicker cushions.
- New chrome and titanium-look accents.
- Meter faces changed from metallic to white.
2005 RSX Type S – Additional Enhancements:
- Engine Performance Boost: Intake and exhaust modifications increased horsepower to 210 hp at 7800 rpm (compared to 200 hp at 7400 rpm).
- High-performance camshafts for improved engine breathing.
- Enlarged air intake duct for increased airflow.
- Larger diameter exhaust pipes to increase exhaust flow.
- Optimized catalytic converter to reduce exhaust backpressure.
- Optimized 6-Speed Transmission: Lower final gear ratio for quicker acceleration and carbon synchronizers on 5th and 6th gears for smoother shifts.
- Larger Diameter Front Strut Tower Bar.
- Bushings Replaced by Bearings on Strut Mount: For quicker turning response.
- Deck Lid Spoiler.
High-Performance Powertrain of the 2005 RSX Type S
The 2005 RSX lineup features two iterations of an innovative 16-valve, DOHC, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine, both leveraging Acura’s intelligent Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (i-VTEC) system. The i-VTEC system incorporates VTC (Variable Timing Control) to continuously adjust intake-camshaft phase in conjunction with Acura’s Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system. This sophisticated technology enhances performance, fuel efficiency, and reduces emissions across a broad power band. The standard RSX utilizes VTC and VTEC on the intake valves and camshaft, while the 2005 RSX Type S i-VTEC system combines VTC intake phasing with VTEC intake and exhaust valve control, further optimizing performance.
The base RSX engine produces a respectable 160 horsepower and 141 lb-ft of torque. However, the 2005 RSX Type S engine, thanks to new high-performance camshafts, a larger diameter intake duct, and modifications to the exhaust system including larger diameter exhaust pipes, delivers a more potent 210 horsepower and 143 lb-ft of torque.
Both the RSX and 2005 RSX Type S models meet stringent Low Emission Vehicle-II (LEV-II) standards, adopted by the California Air Resources Board (CARB) for 2005, demonstrating Acura’s commitment to environmental responsibility alongside performance.
The 160-horsepower RSX engine is paired with a choice of two advanced transmissions: a smooth-shifting five-speed manual for engaging driving dynamics, or an optional 5-speed automatic transmission featuring Acura’s Sequential SportShift system. Inspired by the Acura NSX exotic sports car, the SportShift transmission allows drivers to choose between fully automatic operation or manual gear selection.
In line with its high-performance mission, the 2005 RSX Type S is exclusively equipped with a 6-speed manual transmission. Engineered to be exceptionally compact and lightweight, this 6-speed transmission is also designed for short and precise shifts. It incorporates a short-throw clutch with an innovative torsion mechanism that significantly reduces noise. For the 2005 RSX Type S, the final gear ratio of this transmission was lowered by 8.6 percent to complement the increased engine power and deliver enhanced acceleration. Multiple synchronizers are utilized for exceptional shift feel, and for 2005, single cone carbon synchronizers replace brass double cone synchronizers on fifth and sixth gear for quicker response and an improved shifting experience.
Global Compact Platform and Enhanced Chassis
To achieve both a sleek exterior profile and a spacious cabin, the RSX is built upon the Global Compact Platform. It features a 4-wheel independent suspension system, which, for 2005, was significantly retuned to provide even more agile handling and refined ride comfort. At the front, the RSX employs a compact Control-Link MacPherson Strut suspension, contributing to outstanding handling, ride quality, and packaging efficiency. The Control-Link MacPherson Strut design helps maximize each front tire’s contact with the road throughout the suspension’s range of motion, resulting in quick, responsive handling. In the rear, the RSX is equipped with a compact double-wishbone suspension, which further promotes a smooth ride, excellent handling, and maximizes cargo space.
To amplify the driving enjoyment of the 2005 RSX models, both received substantial suspension revisions designed to enhance handling precision and ride comfort. A new geometry lowers the car by 7 mm, improving the center of gravity. Stabilizer bar diameters were increased on both models, as was the diameter of the front strut tower bar on the 2005 RSX Type S. Furthermore, bushings at the suspension installation points were optimized, and on the 2005 RSX Type S, these bushings were replaced by bearings on the strut tower mounts, resulting in quicker turn-in response. Inversely wound front coil springs were implemented to minimize the effect of suspension compression on steering, further improving handling predictability.
Large disc brakes at all four wheels provide exceptional stopping power. The standard RSX utilizes 10.3-inch ventilated front discs, while the high-performance 2005 RSX Type S features larger 11.8-inch ventilated front discs for increased thermal capacity and braking force. Both the RSX and 2005 RSX Type S are equipped with 10.2-inch rear rotors. The brake systems on both models were enhanced for 2005 with a lower pedal stroke ratio, a more rigid brake pedal, and a larger diameter master cylinder, all contributing to enhanced performance and superior braking feel.
The robust unit body of the RSX was originally engineered to set a new benchmark for torsional and bending rigidity. This standard was further elevated for 2005 by strengthening key points on the body and chassis. Exterior styling was also updated for 2005, giving the car a more distinctive and sporty appearance. Enhancements include redesigned front and rear fascias, new side sills, redesigned headlight and taillight assemblies, and the addition of a deck lid spoiler specifically for the 2005 RSX Type S model. These styling changes, along with the suspension modifications, contribute to lowering both the coefficient of drag and coefficient of lift, enhancing high-speed stability.
The RSX platform was computer-designed to achieve a 5-star NCAP rating for frontal impact from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), demonstrating a commitment to safety. Specially designed crumple zones in the front and rear effectively dissipate impact forces before they reach the passenger cabin, while impact-absorbing pads in the pillars, roof sides, and door linings work in conjunction with the standard front and side airbags to minimize occupant injury risk.
Spacious and Stylish Cockpit
Despite its compact 101.2-inch wheelbase, the RSX offers generous room for both passengers and cargo, a testament to its efficient design, compact suspension system, and cab-forward architecture. With the rear seats in the upright position, the cargo area provides a practical 16 cubic feet of storage space.
The driver-oriented cockpit was refreshed for 2005 with new chrome and titanium-look accents and upgraded materials throughout, creating a more premium feel. It features a sleek instrument panel with large, red-backlit gauges for excellent nighttime visibility. Both models feature deeply bolstered seats, redesigned for 2005 to offer increased support and enhanced comfort, and a three-spoke, leather-wrapped steering wheel, reinforcing the “driver’s car” feel. Attractive double knit material with patterned-cloth center inserts is standard on the RSX, while perforated, hand-selected leather is available as an option. Perforated leather upholstery comes standard on the 2005 RSX Type S, further distinguishing the higher-performance model.
Standard Luxury Features
In keeping with Acura’s tradition, the RSX is comprehensively equipped with a range of standard luxury features. These include an Automatic Climate Control system with air filtration, a keyless entry and security system with an anti-theft engine immobilizer, power windows with an “auto-up/down” feature for the driver’s window, heated power sideview mirrors, and intermittent wipers. Furthermore, the RSX boasts a standard 6-speaker audio system with an in-dash CD player, while the 2005 RSX Type S elevates the audio experience with an even more impressive 7-speaker Acura/Bose® Music System, complete with a 6-disc in-dash CD changer and cassette player.
Sporty and Aerodynamic Exterior Design
For 2005, the exterior styling of the RSX was enhanced to project a sportier, more dynamic image. The grille, front and rear bumpers, side sills, headlights, and taillights were all redesigned, building upon the existing sporting appeal of the previous model and ensuring the 2005 RSX Type S and standard RSX models look as fast as they perform.
Thanks to gently tapered body-side panels, curved door and quarter-panel glass, and the 7 mm lower suspension for 2005, the RSX achieves class-leading aerodynamics for a coupe in its segment. The coefficient of lift and coefficient of drag were improved for the 2005 model year, and the ratio of lift front to rear was optimized for maximum high-speed stability, contributing to confident handling at higher speeds.
The RSX is available in a range of exterior colors, including Taffeta White, Nighthawk Black, Satin Silver Metallic, Premium White Pearl (Type-S only), and Milano Red. Four new exterior color options were introduced for 2005: Magnesium Metallic, Vivid Blue Pearl, Jade Green Metallic, and Blaze Orange Metallic, replacing Artic Blue Pearl, Eternal Blue Pearl, and Desert Silver Metallic, offering buyers more personalized choices.
In conclusion, the 2005 Acura RSX Type S represents a significant step forward in the evolution of the sports coupe. With its enhanced powertrain, refined handling, and updated styling, it delivers an even more compelling and engaging driving experience, solidifying its position as a benchmark in its class and a desirable option for driving enthusiasts.
