In the pursuit of enhancing both aesthetics and performance for the Acura RSX Type S, we car enthusiasts often turn to aftermarket modifications that seamlessly blend style with functionality. One such popular modification for the Acura RSX is the installation of Seibon Carbon Fiber Hood. These hoods not only serve as a visual upgrade but also bring a host of advantages to the table.

The Seibon carbon fiber hood, the carbon fiber itself is a composite material cherished for its strength-to-weight ratio, becomes a key player in this vehicular transformation. The lightweight nature of carbon fiber not only reduces the overall weight of the vehicle but also provides a distinct visual appeal. Acura RSX owners looking to make a statement often find carbon fiber hoods as an attractive choice, combining form and function in one sleek package.

Beyond their striking appearance, Seibon carbon fiber hoods offer practical benefits such as improved aerodynamics and enhanced heat dissipation. The intricate designs and styles available cater to various tastes, allowing owners to tailor their RSX to reflect their unique automotive preferences.

In this exploration of carbon fiber hoods for the Acura RSX, we’ll delve into three distinctive types—OEM-Style, MG Style, and TS-Style. Each variant not only caters to different aesthetic preferences but also caters to specific performance aspirations, making the choice of a carbon fiber hood a dynamic and personalized journey for RSX enthusiasts.

Why Seibon vs other carbon fiber brands?

Seibon is a well-known brand in the automotive aftermarket industry, particularly recognized for its high-quality carbon fiber components, including hoods, fenders, trunk lids, and other exterior parts. The company has gained a strong reputation for producing lightweight and durable carbon fiber products that cater to the needs of automotive enthusiasts and racers.

When it comes to the Acura RSX and carbon fiber hoods, Seibon has been a popular choice among RSX owners looking to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and performance of their vehicles. Here are some key points related to Seibon and its carbon fiber hoods for the Acura RSX:

1. Quality and Craftsmanship:
   • Seibon is known for its commitment to quality and craftsmanship. The brand uses advanced manufacturing processes and high-quality materials to produce carbon fiber components that meet or exceed industry standards. This attention to detail ensures that Seibon products are not only visually appealing but also durable and reliable.
2. Fitment and Compatibility:
   • Seibon places a strong emphasis on proper fitment and compatibility with the specific makes and models of the vehicles they cater to, including the Acura RSX. This ensures that their carbon fiber hoods align seamlessly with the contours of the vehicle, providing a factory-like fit and finish.
3. Variety of Styles:
   • Seibon offers a variety of styles and designs for its carbon fiber hoods, allowing customers to choose based on their preferences. Whether someone is looking for an OEM-style hood to maintain a stock appearance or a more aggressive design with additional vents and scoops, Seibon typically provides options to suit different tastes.
4. Performance Benefits:
   • Beyond aesthetics, Seibon’s carbon fiber hoods often provide performance benefits. The lightweight nature of carbon fiber contributes to weight reduction, which can improve overall vehicle performance by enhancing acceleration, handling, and fuel efficiency.
5. Brand Recognition:
   • Seibon’s reputation as a trusted brand in the automotive aftermarket adds a level of confidence for consumers. Positive reviews, a history of producing quality products, and the use of advanced manufacturing techniques contribute to the brand’s recognition and trustworthiness.

In fact, another selling point of the Seibon carbon fiber hood is that it works with the OEM hood latch. While the OEM hood latch is known to have issues with failure in other areas, few carbon fiber hood companies offer the ability to use the OEM system. Often times, they require hood pins and modification and drilling of the hood to make it fit.

The 3 Types of carbon Fiber hoods for the RSX / DC5

Let’s delve into the characteristics of the three types of Acura RSX Seibon carbon fiber hoods:

1. OEM-Style Carbon Fiber Hood:
   • Description: An OEM-style carbon fiber hood is designed to closely mimic the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) hood that came with the vehicle. It replicates the factory hood’s design and shape, offering a sleek and familiar appearance but with the lightweight and durable properties of carbon fiber.
   • Purpose: This type of hood is ideal for those who want to maintain a stock or factory look while benefiting from the advantages of carbon fiber, such as reduced weight and improved aesthetics.
2. MG Style Carbon Fiber Hood:
   • Description: The MG (Mugen) style carbon fiber hood is likely inspired by the design language associated with Mugen, a Japanese tuning company known for its performance-oriented aftermarket parts. These hoods often feature more aggressive styling, additional vents, and aerodynamic enhancements compared to the OEM-style.
   • Purpose: MG style hoods are popular among enthusiasts who want a more sporty and customized appearance for their Acura RSX. The added aerodynamic features may contribute to improved airflow and cooling. 
3. TS-Style Carbon Fiber Hood:
   • Description: The TS (Type-S) style carbon fiber hood is likely inspired by the Type-S variant of the Acura RSX, which was the high-performance model. These hoods may have a distinctive design that sets them apart from the standard OEM-style, with features such as vents, scoops, or a more aggressive profile.
   • Purpose: TS-style hoods are favored by those seeking a high-performance and race-inspired look for their Acura RSX. The design elements may contribute to improved aerodynamics and cooling, aligning with a more aggressive driving aesthetic.

When choosing among these styles, it often comes down to personal preference and the desired look for the vehicle. Additionally, factors such as functionality, weight reduction, and aerodynamics may play a role in the decision-making process.

Weight reduction benefits for the Seibon carbon fiber hood

The weight reduction achieved by switching from an OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) hood to a carbon fiber hood depends on various factors, including the specific design of the hoods and the materials used. However, in general, carbon fiber is known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio, and using carbon fiber components can result in a noticeable reduction in overall vehicle weight.

The weight of an OEM hood and a carbon fiber hood for the same vehicle can vary significantly. I believe it can cut weight by almost 40 lbs depending on the manufacturer and hood type you choose. Carbon fiber is significantly lighter than traditional materials like steel or aluminum. Carbon fiber hoods are designed to be lightweight while maintaining structural integrity. The weight of OEM hoods varies between different vehicle models and manufacturers. Generally, OEM hoods are made from steel or aluminum, which are heavier than carbon fiber.

Which carbon fiber hood would I choose?

I am personally a big fan of the OEM style, however I think the MG (Mugen Style) is unique and provides performance and cooling benfits that the OEM cannot achieve. While I’m still deciding which one, I think if I were to upgrade, I would also get the RSX carbon fiber trunk as well.