Japan vs Japan — 2017 vs 1999
| Civic Type R (FK8) | Civic Si EM1 | |
|---|---|---|
| Horsepower | 320 hp | 160 hp |
| Torque | 295 lb-ft | 111 lb-ft |
| Engine Size | 1,996 cc | 1,595 cc |
| 0-60 mph | 4.9 sec | 7.0 sec |
| Top Speed | 169 mph | 134 mph |
| ¼ Mile | 13.0 sec | 15.3 sec |
| Weight | — | 2,401 lbs |
| Wheelbase | 2,700 mm | 2,620 mm |
| Length | 4,557 mm | 4,348 mm |
| Original MSRP | — | $17,560 |
| Value (Excellent) | $55,000 | $32,000 |
| Collectibility | 5/10 | 7/10 |
| Rarity | 3/10 | 6/10 |
It's a closely fought contest. The 2017 Honda Civic Type R (FK8) brings more power, quicker acceleration, higher top speed to the table, and the 1999 Honda Civic Si EM1 answers with stronger collectibility, 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. The 2017 and 1999 iterations represent different chapters in this storied nameplate's history, each reflecting the priorities and technologies of its era. The 2017 Honda Civic Type R (FK8) holds a clear advantage in raw power with 320 hp compared to 160 hp, a 160-horsepower difference that shapes the driving experience. Under the hood, the contrast is notable: the Honda Civic uses a Inline-4 Turbo DOHC VTEC 16V 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 2017 Honda Civic Type R (FK8) edges ahead at 4.9 seconds versus 7.0 seconds. On the collector market, the 2017 Honda Civic Type R (FK8) commands a significant premium over the 1999 Honda Civic Si EM1, reflecting differences in prestige and rarity. From a collectibility standpoint, the 1999 Honda Civic Si EM1 rates higher among enthusiasts and auction houses.