Japan vs Japan — 2015 vs 1999
| Civic Type R FK2 | Civic Si EM1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 306 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 111 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,996 cc | 1,595 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 5.4 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 168 mph | 134 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.8 sec | 15.3 sec |
| Weight | 3,047 lbs | 2,401 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,600 mm | 2,620 mm |
| Length | 4,390 mm | 4,348 mm |
| Units Produced | 2,500 | — |
| Original MSRP | — | $17,560 |
| Value (Excellent) | $60,000 | $32,000 |
| Collectibility | 7/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 7/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2015 Honda Civic Type R FK2 brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1999 Honda Civic Si EM1 answers with lighter weight, better value. Both are excellent machines that reward their owners in different ways — there's no wrong answer here.
Few model names carry as much weight as the Honda Civic Type R. The 2015 and 1999 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2015 Honda Civic Type R FK2 holds a clear advantage in raw power with 306 hp compared to 160 hp, a 146-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Honda Civic Type R uses a Inline-4 DOHC VTEC Turbocharged displacing 1,996 cc, while the Honda Civic Si relies on a Inline-4 DOHC 16-valve VTEC (B16A2) with 1,595 cc. In the sprint to 60 mph, the 2015 Honda Civic Type R FK2 edges ahead at 5.4 seconds versus 7.0 seconds. The Honda Civic Si carries a weight advantage, tipping the scales 646 lbs lighter. On the collector market, the 2015 Honda Civic Type R FK2 commands a significant premium over the 1999 Honda Civic Si EM1, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity.