The Type R name is synonymous with the best of Honda. At the 2019 Art of Speed, we got to see four of the best Civic and Integras
Honda Integra Type R DC2 (1995-2001)
Every one of these cars is iconic in their own way, but the DC2 is definitely the coolest, most collectable of the bunch. It came with a B18C 4 cylinder pushing out about 200PS, but it was the way the car handled that built its reputation.
Not only did Honda give the Integra Type R a helical LSD, but it spent loads of money strengthening the chassis, lowering the car’s weight and improving the suspension. The result was a car that was overengineered and each was sold at a loss to Honda.
Honda Civic Type R EK9 (1997-2000)
The next on the list is the ever-green EK9 Civic. This was the first Civic to actually get the Type R treatment, as earlier models were only given milder performance enhancements to go with their VTEC engines. Speaking of VTEC engines, the B16B in this is insane. It produced more horsepower per litre than any other naturally-aspirated engine of its time, including motors built by supercar manufacturers.
This 1.6-litre was producing over 180hp! Now consider the fact that it weighed just over 1 tonne and you can imagine just how fast this thing could fly.
Honda Integra Type R DC5 (2001-2006)
The Integra DC5 is one of the most recognisable Type Rs to many younger car enthusiasts. It brought in performance-enhanced variants of the K20 i-VTEC engine, which delivered 220hp to the front wheels. Styling on this pre-facelift model makes it look modern even though the car has been around for nearly 20 years now.
Sadly, the DC5 was the last of Honda’s Integra line. With coupe sales taking a slump, the company decided to axe the Integra and focus on the sedan, hatch and SUV markets.
Honda Civic Type R EP3 (2001-2005)
The EP3 is perhaps the most unfamiliar of the front-wheel-drive Type Rs, at least to Malaysians. Just like the current Civic Type R, this model was built in Swindon, UK. Even EP3 Civics built for the Japanese domestic market were produced in Swindon but to a different specification. The JDM cars had a few changes, like shorter gear ratios, a helical LSD, red Recaro seats and more.
