Honda Integra Type R DC2
The Integra Type R is Honda at its absolute peak. In the mid-1990s, Honda's engineering was the best in the world — they were winning in Formula 1, dominating touring car racing, and producing road cars that were the benchmark for naturally aspirated performance. The Integra Type R DC2 was the distillation of all that knowledge into an affordable sports coupe.
The B18C5 engine was a masterpiece. Each unit was hand-assembled at Honda's Suzuka factory, with hand-ported and polished intake ports for optimal airflow. It produced 195 hp from 1.8 liters — an astounding 108 hp per liter without any forced induction. The VTEC crossover at 5,700 RPM was a visceral experience: the engine's character transformed from mild-mannered to race car in an instant, pulling hard to the 8,400 RPM redline.
But the Type R was far more than its engine. Honda's engineers lightened the car obsessively — thinner glass, deleted sound deadening, lighter wheels, a reduced spare tire, and lightweight Recaro seats brought curb weight to just 1,087 kg. The double wishbone suspension was stiffened and lowered, with revised geometry for reduced understeer. A helical LSD directed power to the wheel with the most grip. The result was a front-wheel-drive car that could embarrass rear-wheel-drive rivals on a circuit.
The Type R badge meant something at Honda. It represented the absolute best — a no-compromise, track-focused road car that was also perfectly usable as daily transport. The DC2 Integra Type R, along with the NSX-R, defined what Type R meant.
US-market cars were slightly different from JDM spec (USDM had 195 hp vs JDM 200 PS, different bumpers, and slightly more weight), but both are exceptional. The JDM 98-spec (facelift) with 200 PS is considered the ultimate version.
The Integra Type R is one of the most stolen cars in American history — verify the VIN thoroughly and check the theft history. Many cars have been modified or raced. Stock examples are rare and command huge premiums (a stock Championship White ITR can exceed $80,000). Check for: accident damage (many crashed at track days), engine modifications (hand-ported head is irreplaceable if damaged), rear quarter panel and wheel arch rust, and correct VIN documentation. The sunroof-delete cars are slightly lighter and more desirable.
US-market Integra Type R: 1997-2001 (approximately 14,000 units). JDM Honda Integra Type R DC2: 1995-2001. The JDM 98-spec received a facelift, revised suspension geometry, and the slightly more powerful B18C engine (200 PS). Championship White was the signature color. Each engine was hand-built at Suzuka by master technicians.