1997 Acura Integra Type R

Following in the wake of the cutting-edge rear-wheel drive NSX supercar, the Japanese domestic market was introduced to a similar performance-oriented front-wheel drive sports car in 1995. The factory-tuned, hand-built B18C engine in the Integra Type R produced nearly 200 horsepower and was paired with a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission and a helical-type limited-slip differential. To cope with the power, the chassis was strengthened, and extra spot welds and thicker metal were added around the rear shock towers and lower subframe. The vehicle's overall weight was reduced with lighter wheels, a 10 percent thinner windscreen, and reduced sound installation.

Sold as the Acura Integra Type R in North America, its 1.8-liter inline four-cylinder VTEC engine produced more horses-per-liter than the contemporary Ferrari F355's 3.5-liter V8. It had high-compression pistons, lightweight connecting rods, polished and ported intake ports, and upgraded intake and exhaust systems. Large anti-lock brakes, larger sway bars, and the additional body bracing helped handle the power from the engine.

The compact liftback sedan rested on a 101.2-inch wheelbase with an overall length of 172.4 inches.

The Integra Type R was the only Type R ever sold in North America with the Acura badge. The versions sold to the European, Australian, and New Zealand markets were badged as a Honda.

by Daniel Vaughan | Jul 2023