Honda Integra Type R DC5
The fourth-generation Honda Integra Type R, known by its DC5 chassis code, was the final chapter of one of the most celebrated performance car lineages in Japanese automotive history. Produced from 2001 to 2006 and sold exclusively in Japan as the Integra Type R (and in some markets as the Acura RSX Type-S with a detuned engine), the DC5 represented the pinnacle of Honda's naturally aspirated, front-wheel-drive performance philosophy.
The K20A engine was the beating heart of the DC5 Type R and is widely considered one of the finest naturally aspirated four-cylinder engines ever made for a road car. Displacing 2.0 liters, this DOHC unit with Honda's i-VTEC variable valve timing system produced 220 horsepower at 8,000 rpm - an extraordinary specific output of 110 hp per liter achieved without forced induction. The engine's character was quintessentially Honda: relatively docile below the VTEC engagement point, then transformed into a snarling, free-revving powerhouse that pulled eagerly to its 8,400 rpm redline.
The six-speed close-ratio manual gearbox was the perfect complement to the K20A's high-revving character. With short, precise throws and a light, mechanical action, it is consistently ranked among the best manual transmissions ever fitted to a production car. The close ratios kept the engine in its powerband during spirited driving, rewarding drivers who worked the gearbox actively. A helical limited-slip differential managed the considerable power being put through the front wheels.
The DC5's chassis was designed to be both a comfortable daily driver and a capable track car. The front MacPherson struts and rear double-wishbone suspension provided a balanced, predictable handling character with sharp turn-in and excellent mid-corner composure. The car weighed just 1,180 kg, making it light enough to feel genuinely agile without resorting to the stripped-out minimalism of some track-focused competitors.
Brembo front brake calipers were standard, providing powerful and consistent stopping power that could handle repeated hard stops on circuit. The brake pedal feel was excellent, with a firm, progressive bite that inspired confidence during trail braking. The overall braking performance was among the best in the DC5's class.
The interior was pure Type R: Recaro bucket seats in red fabric, a titanium shift knob, an aluminum pedal set, and red instrumentation. The seats were among the best factory-installed items in any performance car, providing excellent lateral support during hard cornering while remaining comfortable for daily use. The driving position was ideal, with the steering wheel, pedals, and shift lever all falling naturally to hand.
The DC5 Type R was the last naturally aspirated Integra Type R, and the last to use the Type R's traditional formula of high-revving engine, manual gearbox, limited-slip differential, and lightweight construction without turbocharged augmentation. Its significance as the end of an era has elevated its collector status considerably, and clean, unmolested examples now command significant premiums.
Today, the DC5 Integra Type R is recognized as one of the definitive Honda performance cars. Its combination of the K20A engine, outstanding gearbox, well-balanced chassis, and practical coupe body makes it the complete driver's car. Values have risen sharply as enthusiasts recognize that no future Honda will replicate this particular combination of attributes.
The K20A engine is very reliable but check for oil consumption at high mileage. The VTEC solenoid gasket can leak oil. The six-speed gearbox is durable but synchros on 2nd and 3rd can wear on heavily used cars. Check for signs of track use and hard driving. Verify the car is a genuine JDM Type R with the K20A engine (220 hp) rather than an export RSX Type-S (200 hp). Recaro seat condition and bolster wear indicate usage level. Championship White is the most desirable color. Unmodified examples command significant premiums.
The DC5 Integra Type R was produced from 2001 to 2006 at Honda's Suzuka factory. It was sold in Japan as the Honda Integra Type R, in Australia and Europe as the Honda Integra Type R (detuned to 200 hp in some markets), and in North America as the Acura RSX Type-S (with the K20A2 engine producing 200 hp). The Japan-spec K20A with 220 hp is the most desirable version.