2001 Honda Integra Type R

Since that nasty little RSX prototype and it’s nimble sports-variant the Type S were announced by Acura, everyone has been speculating about a secret rocket-version from Japan. It’s as if the 200 hp iVTEC and six-speed weren’t enough.

Well, they're not, and Honda must agree because as of July 2001, there were a couple of Japanese RSX/Integra models being sold on the island with factory tweaks, including the mythical Type R. Their true names are Honda Integra Type R and Integra iS, representing the base and tuner style versions of the American RSX. Because Acura is an Americanized nameplate, the JDM Type Rs are all badged Honda.

The Type R is rated at 220hp and the RSX makes 200hp. Since both use the 2.0 liter iVTEC engine with VTC (variable timing control) we suspect the extra 20 hp that the JDM version provides is hidden somewhere in the computer tuning. Our sources in Japan stated that like the American RSX, the R’s new engine has larger exhaust ports with dual manifolds combined with a fixed short-runner intake to provide high-rpm power without sacrificing stoplight punch and vehicle emissions. The 2.0-liter is also several pounds lighter than the 1.8 from previous Integras. The base model iS is no slouch with the same 2.0-liter block VTEC and VTC controls that produces 160 hp, easily tunable we think.

We all know the cool part of the new American RSX is the 6-speed. The Type R also sports the multi-cog box with an ultra-lightweight steel flywheel that lets the engine rev freely and allows flat-on-the-floor powershifts to stay up near the redline. The Type R six-speed is actually lighter and more compact than the GS-R 5-speed and is equipped with a torque induction-type LSD for straight-line smoke shows. We approve.

Although both the RSX and the Type R boast a leather wrapped steering wheel and big brakes, it’s the JDM version that drops names like Brembo and MOMO to get the hard-core Japanese tuners attention. We’re sure that the RSX has Brembo and MOMO-inspired goodies that are toned down for America’s conservative markets.

We haven’t heard of a Type R being brought stateside (legally) but really the RSX is a thinly disguised version with left-hand drive which lends itself to the Taco Bell drive-thru window. Honestly, if you want the JDM Type R, buy the RSX and give Mügen a call.