Cars

Honda INTEGRA TYPE R (DC5)

The Integra Type R was unveiled in 2001 as the first wave of Type R for the 21st century. Up until this time, the Type R had been Civic and Integra based models that were tuned in-house by Honda. For the Integra Type R however, the Integra itself was developed by taking into account characteristics suitable for the Type R. This model could therefore be called a “sports model designed from the ground up”.

Despite the Spartan specifications of this model that omits the use of noise insulation materials, it is notable that some degree of effort was made to improve occupant comfort, with noise and vibrations suppressed as much as possible.

Nonetheless, the drivability of this vehicle undoubtedly exceeds the previous generation by far. The engine used was a new generation 2L inline four-cylinder DOHC called the K20A i-VTEC, generating 220 ps and 21.0 kgm torque, with responsiveness improved by using a lightweight flywheel.

The gearbox was a cross-ratio 6-speed manual transmission that utilised a newly developed multi-cone synchro on all gears. The suspension features struts at the front and double wishbones at the rear. This model was also fitted with Brembo brand brakes for the first time ever in a Honda vehicle. The standard tyres fitted were 17-inch 215/45ZR17.

The level of driving was so exceptional that it left all of the other front-engine front-drive vehicles in its dust. The cornering always exhibited a high level of stability, with the vehicle, being able to change directions at will with far more freedom than many clumsy front-engine rear-drive vehicles. There is plenty of traction when taking off, and the high degree of contact between the tyres and road surface is enough to keep the steering effective. While it is necessary to “wait” before opening the accelerator when cornering in a front-engine front-drive vehicle, the Integra Type R makes this virtually unnecessary. Although the Integra Type R remains the number one car in the world to bear the badge of a front wheel drive sport car, production sadly ceased in July 2006 due to a drop in Japanese coupe sales.