With the world’s motoring press labelling the Honda Integra Type R as the greatest front-wheel drive performance car ever and one of the best handling cars of all time, the DC2R has quite the reputation to live up to.
The focus of the Integra Type R was to minimize weight, enhance rigidity and increase performance. This was achieved by putting the Integra through a comprehensive weight loss regime while also tuning the power plant, drivetrain, suspension and brakes to extract the absolute most from the DC2 platform.
The DC2R received various revisions during its lifecycle and was sold under the Acura badge in the US.
However, as the DC2 Integra Type R is now pushing 20 years of age and many examples are topping 200,000kms travelled, the focussed performance car has most likely been driven very hard on a number of occasions during this period and while it is becoming an icon of motoring, are they worth the ever-increasing asking prices and should you buy one at all?
The B18C VTEC engine in the Type R is incredibly tough and durable, but we recommend regular oil changes at every 5,000kms using very high-quality oils.
We recommend this as the B18C can burn through a small amount of oil even with less spirited driving.
A fresh cambelt and new spark plugs are required every five years or 100,000kms (60,000 miles) and check that coolant and fuel filters have been replaced with original Honda units as they should be changed every four years or 75,000kms (48,000 miles).
Watch for any modifications, especially aftermarket air filters, turbo or supercharger kits or modified exhausts and ECUs. Cheap or poorly made non-stock parts can fail and potentially strangle the engine at high revs when compared to the official Honda items.
VTEC solenoids can wear and may require replacement and the oil pan can flex and bend resulting in small oil leaks. Both of these issues are relatively easily fixed.
If the car is smoking from the exhaust, it could be a sign of abuse and worn piston rings or a range of other problems. This could result in major headaches in the future.
You may hear a rattle from underneath the car as you are driving it. This is typically caused by a loose heat shield on the exhaust, which can be tightened in a few minutes.
If the car knocks when it is being revved it is most likely caused by the engine making contact with the bodywork due to a failed engine mount. This is not usually a big problem as the rear engine mount can be replaced fairly easily.
Thoroughly check the body work and chassis for signs of accidents, badly repaired crash damage or general abuse. As the DC2R was (for a time) very affordable, extremely popular amongst car enthusiasts and learner and professional drivers, meaning many Integra Type Rs have been driven hard, abused, crashed and repaired badly.
Finally, rust is becoming quite common, especially around the tailgate near the car’s roof.
As long as you can find a well cared for example with a full and thorough service history and a minimal number of previous owners, yes.
Ideally a DC2R with folders full of receipts, photos and a comprehensive history is a must buy as the right Integra Type R is sure to be future classic.
However, unless you’re planning on buying a restoration project or an affordable platform to build a brilliant track car, we’d recommend avoiding DC2Rs with questionable histories, minimal or no service records and excessive modifications.
Warranty:
3 years, 80,000km warranty
Servicing:
6 months or 10,000kms
Body style:
2-door coupe
Engines:
1.8-litre DOHC VTEC in-line 4-cyl (B18C)
Power:
147kW
145kW (US market)
139kW (UK market)
Torque:
176Nm
Transmissions:
5-spd close-ratio manual
Fuel use:
8.1L/100kms (claimed)
Dimensions:
Height: 1,320mm
Length: 4,395mm
Width: 1,710mm
Kerb weight: 1136kg
Information correct as of July 09, 2021.
The advice provided on this website is general advice only. It has been prepared without taking into account your objectives, financial situation or needs. Before acting on this advice, you should consider the appropriateness of the advice, having regard to your own objectives, financial situation and needs.
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