Acura Integra
Acura
Photo: OSX / Wikimedia Commons · Public domain
The icon. From the DC2 Integra Type R to the 2023 revival. VTEC, front drive, and a tuner legend.
The Acura Integra is one of the most loved front-drive cars ever made. Across the 1980s, 1990s, and early 2000s it offered sharp handling, high-revving VTEC engines, and a chassis that rewarded skilled driving. The DC2 Integra Type R (1997-2001), with its hand-ported B18C5 and 8,400 rpm redline, is widely considered the best front-wheel-drive car of its era. Acura revived the nameplate in 2023 as a premium sport compact, with a turbo engine, an available 6-speed manual, and a Type S model using the Civic Type R K20C1 turbo four. On WhipJury, Integra builds span clean DC2 Type R examples, GS-R swaps, and the new Type S.
Integra generations
The classic Integras (1986-2001) used B-series engines, peaking with the DC2 Type R and its naturally aspirated B18C5. The RSX (2002-2006) replaced it with K-series power. After a long hiatus, the 2023 Integra returned on the Civic platform, with the Type S using the 320 horsepower K20C1 turbo four and a manual.
Frequently asked questions about Acura Integra
Why is the Integra Type R so revered?
The DC2 Integra Type R (1997-2001) paired a hand-ported, high-revving B18C5 with a light, rigid chassis and a helical limited-slip differential. It is widely called the best-handling front-wheel-drive car of its era, and clean examples now command serious money.
Is the new Integra related to the Civic?
Yes. The 2023 Integra shares its platform with the Honda Civic, and the Integra Type S uses the same K20C1 turbo four and 6-speed manual as the Civic Type R.
What is the difference between the Integra and the RSX?
The RSX (2002-2006) was effectively the next-generation Integra for North America, using K-series engines. Acura dropped the Integra name for it, then revived Integra in 2023.
Does the Integra come with a manual?
Yes. A 6-speed manual is available on the modern Integra, and is standard on the Type S, continuing the model enthusiast tradition.
Are old Integras good tuner cars?
Yes. B-series and K-series swaps, bolt-ons, and chassis upgrades are extensively supported. The Integra is one of the foundational platforms of front-drive Honda tuning.
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