1998 Honda Integra Type R Review - The Track Focused Hatch - GT Sport | Reviews By Gil

The Honda Integra (Acura Integra for the US domestic market) has been synonymous with one of two things over the years. You've either seen the Integra with body kits, vinyl, and awful spoilers with most of them being modified beyond recognition. Or, you've seen the Integra with a massive aftermarket turbo embarrassing a muscle car at the drag strip. However, you have viewed them, this little front wheel drive hatchback has a following that would make some religions jealous. Here, we have the prestigious Type R - the track worthy edition. This model is the JDM spec (Honda Integra Type R) with the elongated headlights, but there are some similarities with the USDM car. Why are enthusiasts flocking to these hatchbacks? Let's jump on the circuit to find out what made the Integra Type R such a massive hit.

1998 Honda Integra Type R

Before we begin, are you looking for solar panels in Florida? Remember, we can help you save money on your electric bill! Contact us for more information!

Interior

There are a few interior goodies that set the Type R apart from the normal line up. Red Recaro body-hugging seats were available if you ordered your Integra Type R in Championship White. The slick 5-speed shifter with a black shift boot is pinstriped in red which is a nice detail. Of course, there's carbon fiber trim around the shift boot, and air conditioning controls if you've optioned not to be sweaty all the time. Plus, there's a little Type R badge under the hand brake to remind you that you're in a very specialized machine. However, it's still an Integra in here. That means you can still see out of it with the help of the big greenhouse. Also, there's still ample space in the back for any errands to the shops you may have.

Exterior

The model shown is for the Japanese domestic market. Americans received a more bug-eye styled front end that the Japanese weren't too fond of. As a result, the front looks much sleeker than its American counterpart. Other than that, it's standard Integra around here. It's an attractive looking hatchback that, even with the wing on the back, manages not to receive too much attention.

1998 Honda Integra Type R

How does it drive?

The Honda Integra Type R is a great starting point for learning car control around a track. At 2600 lbs., the Integra's lightweight brings absolute agility to the circuit. Steering is very quick, and the car stays very neutral through the corners. Being FWD, there's a little bit of push if you come into a corner too hot. A dash of trail brake though will bring the front back in line rather quickly. A limited-slip differential ensures there's no one-wheel-peel nonsense here. The power is extremely manageable and there's so much grip that you don't have to break that often. Also, there's just enough ponies under the hood to break the tires loose in 2nd which adds a bit of flair to the experience. The manual gearbox is a delight but doesn't want to be rushed too much. All in all, the Honda Integra Type R is not a vehicle that is going to scare you on the track. There are no surprises like lift off over steer or rotation under braking. The Integra Type R is just a very compliant FWD car that everyone can enjoy.

The power of VTEC commands you!

Powering the Honda Integra Type R is the now famous B18C motor producing 195-hp and equipped with an 8500RPM redline for the US domestic market. VTEC kicks in "Yo" between 4000 and 5000 RPM. There's an aggressive noise difference when it climbs onto the cam which is oh so glorious. It’s still a little 1.8. liter though. If you encounter any hills around 115 mph, you'll need to drop down a gear. It's essential to keep the revs high if you want to see some speed out of the Integra. It will work hard for you, but only if you ask it to.

1998 Honda Integra Type R

Reliability

Let's be honest. It's a Honda product. You're probably not going to have any problems.

Value

Recently, one of these Integra Type R's sold for $63,800 at the Barrett Jackson auction. That's a pretty good return if you bought one of these new for the 1998 model year for $24,000. That has the same buying power as $37,500 as of 2018. That's a lot of money for an almost 200-hp and FWD hatch back with optional air conditioning. However, the Type-R did get more go-fast bits than it's GS-R counterpart. Improved chassis rigidity and weight reduction were just some to name a few.

As of this article posting, there are currently 3 Acura Integra Type R's for sale in the United States on Autotrader - with the cheapest one being listed for $22,500. Keep in mind that this example already has 153,000 miles on the clock. One can imagine where the price trends for these machines are headed.

A cheaper alternative would be to go for the slightly lesser Integra GS-R of the same generation. Currently, these can be found on Autotrader for as little as $5000. That's a considerable price saving when you still get 170-hp from the B18C1 engine. Plus, the aftermarket is littered with go-fast parts that could easily make up the power deficit if you so choose.

Should You Buy One?

Prices are sure to rise as time passes. Only one mint condition example needs to sell for 60k+ for the trend to catch on. Collectors will surely jump at low mile examples for these prices. Most likely, I would shy away and find a tidy GS-R example for around $5000. You're 80% of the way to a Type R for a fraction of the price. If what you're after is a well-sorted, fun, FWD drive hatch that can still be used for the weekly grocery run - it's quite hard to beat the little Integra.

1998 Honda Integra Type R

Conclusion

The Honda Integra Type R is an extremely well sorted sports car that can be very enjoyable on the track. If there was such thing as a sure investment, the market sure has spoken on this one.

Craving more?

Check out last week's review of the 1997 Toyota Supra Turbo!

Check out our online business opportunities!

Check out our LTL shipping solutions in the USA!