Honda doesn’t mess around with the Type R brand. When a car bears the name, the chances are it’s a machine for the history books. For an early example of this, look straight to the Integra Type R.
It was introduced in 1995 and the second Type R product after the Honda NSX first got the treatment. It immediately impressed its sole market of Japan, and that success helped it become UK-bound only two years later. That said, us Brits received just 500 units officially.
Each had a starting price of £22,500 – equivalent to around £39,500 in today’s money – so it wasn’t exactly cheap. In fact, it cost more than either the Nissan 300ZX or any four-cylinder Fiat Coupé did back then.
Evidence of the Integra Type R’s greatness begins with its atmospheric (both literally and figuratively) engine. The 1.8-litre four-cylinder is unruly, with a turbo-less 187bhp thanks in part to Honda’s VTEC variable valve timing. Exceed 6500rpm and it surges spiritedly towards a vertiginous 8700rpm redline. And if you think that’s mad, wait until you get a load of one with an ECU from tuner Spoon, because it can raise that number into five figures.
As well as peak power and torque being up high in the rev range – 8000rpm and 7300rpm respectively – you’ll also find the most fun there. Hearing this tiny two-door scream a mighty battle cry, one unique and synonymous with these classic Type Rs, is quite the experience.
Naturally, extracting this entertainment does require a rather heavy right foot – and often a downshift – but that’s no chore. In a sentence, the car’s controls are from the driving gods. The five-speed gearbox is a joy to operate, while the polished steering and chassis creates adjustable, predictable handling. Its limited-slip differential also helps, allowing this front-wheel-drive coupé to put power down competently and aggressively no matter what.
The Integra Type R is light, too, coming in at just 1125kg. Compared with the regular Integra, it has a slimmer and lighter windscreen, lighter wheels and minimal sound deadening. Even air conditioning was an optional extra, just like in a BMW M3 CSL.
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I bought a Civic Aerodeck back in 96 which my work colleague seemed to like. Off he went to buy one but came back with one of these Integra Type Rs. Unfortunatley he fell for the hype. Yes the enthusiasts might drool over that engine and reports of how great a car it was but in reality it was the most uncomfotable car to travel in. I couldn't last more than 10mins in the car, the noise done my head in. I'm sure it was a great track car but road car? No thanks.
His didn't last the year before he traded it in for an Aerodeck.
Definitely one of the really special cars from the turn of the century and fantastic fun to drive. But 20 years on around £20k for a good one? I think I'd opt for a late model Toyota GT86 instead - almost as special, but newer, safer and probably needing less attention to keep it in good fettle.