Japanese automaker Honda has launched the HRC Heritage Racing Program, an offshoot of Honda Racing Corp. The program provides access to iconic racers from Formula 1, Le Mans, and Daytona, including purpose-built prototypes and production-based GT cars.
The first car offered by the program is the #26 XM Satellite Radio AGR Acura ARX-01a, which is not a replica or tribute car. The #26 Acura ARX-01a won the LMP2 class at the 2007 Sebring 12 Hours in its debut race. The winning drivers were Dario Franchitti, Bryan Herta, and Tony Kanaan. This vehicle is Acura's first purpose-built endurance racer.
The ARX-01a's V8 was the first V8 designed and developed by HRC in the U.S. during the period when the operation was known as HPD. While some sources identify the first offering as the #26 car, another source identifies an Acura ARX-01a as #42, an LMP2 sports prototype raced by Andretti Green Racing in the 2007 American Le Mans Series.
Classic race cars never die.
Restoration process and technical support
During restoration, HRC consults technical archives, period photographs, engineering notes, and original homologation documents. Each car is torn down and reassembled using reconditioned and new parts, including rebuilt engines and modernized electronics.
Every restored car undergoes thorough track-testing, and HRC engineers are available to provide trackside support to owners. Buyers will have options during the rebuild process.
Past projects and future offerings
HRC has already performed restorations through the Heritage program, including the Strakka Racing Acura ARX-01c, which won the Le Mans LMP2 class in 2010, four ARX-05 DPi prototypes, a 2001 Team Penske CART IndyCar, and Chassis No. 5 Acura NSX GT3.
The NSX GT3 chassis scored in IMSA and SRO competition.
Future offerings are expected to include historic Honda-powered IndyCars. The #26 Acura ARX-01a will appear at The Quail on August 14 to begin the 2026 Monterey Car Week festivities. HRC has not disclosed the pricing for the ARX-01a or the method for selecting clients.
