Honda Integra DC5 — Buyer's Guide & Specs

The Honda Integra is a high-revving, front-drive icon best known for Type R models and bulletproof B-series engines. Prices are strongest for DC2/DB8 Type R and clean, unmodified cars; base trims remain the value play but are rising with JDM demand.

Looking to buy? Browse Honda Integra listings →

Key Takeaways

  • DC2/DB8 Type R is the value leader and most collectible
  • Stock, rust-free cars command big premiums vs modified
  • B18C/B16A reward maintenance; timing belt is critical
  • RHD JDM supply is finite; 25-year rule boosts demand
  • Rust/accident history are the biggest price killers
  • USDM GS-R is a strong alternative to JDM Type R pricing

Technical Specifications

Engine Options

Engine Displacement Power Boost Notes
D16A1 1.6L 118hp @ 5800rpm (estimated) N/A DOHC 16V; US figures vary by year
ZC 1.6L 130ps @ 6800rpm (estimated) N/A DOHC ZC; output varies by market/year
B16A 1.6L 160ps @ 7600rpm (estimated) N/A DOHC VTEC; early B16A spec varies
B18A1 1.8L 130hp @ 6000rpm (estimated) N/A DOHC non-VTEC; OBD0/OBD1 transition
B17A1 1.7L 160hp @ 7600rpm (estimated) N/A DOHC VTEC; US first VTEC engine
B18B1 1.8L 142hp @ 6300rpm (estimated) N/A DOHC non-VTEC; common LS/RS/GS
B18C1 1.8L 170hp @ 7600rpm (estimated) N/A DOHC VTEC; 4-2-1 header (varies)
B18C5 1.8L 195hp @ 8000rpm (estimated) N/A Hand-ported head, 8400rpm redline
B18C 1.8L 200ps @ 8000rpm (estimated) N/A JDM Type R; helical LSD; high compression
B18C 1.8L 200ps @ 8000rpm (estimated) N/A 98-spec updates; ECU/intake/exhaust revisions
B18C 1.8L 180ps @ 7600rpm (estimated) N/A Non-Type R B18C; output varies by year
K20A3 2.0L 160hp @ 6500rpm (estimated) N/A i-VTEC economy cam; 5MT/5AT
K20A2 2.0L 200hp @ 7400rpm (estimated) N/A i-VTEC performance; 6MT; 7900rpm redline
K20A 2.0L 220ps @ 8000rpm (estimated) N/A JDM Type R; high-lift cams; LSD; 8600rpm
K20A 2.0L 220ps @ 8000rpm (estimated) N/A FD2-based; LSD; Brembo; Recaro

Transmission Options

Type Ratios Availability Notes
5-speed Manual varies by engine/market Most trims (1985-2006) Cable/hydraulic by era; close ratios on sport
4-speed Automatic varies by engine/market Many non-Type R trims Hydraulic/ECT by era; not on most Type R
6-speed Manual varies by model DC5/DE5 Type S/Type R Close ratio; LSD on Type R
5-speed Automatic varies by model DC5 base/iS, some JDM iS SportShift on some markets

Livability

Headroom
37.5"
Low roof; tall drivers may brush head with helmet
Rear Seats
Tight 2+2
Adults fit short trips; legroom limited behind tall driver
Cargo
12-16 cu ft
Hatchbacks practical; coupes/sedans less flexible

Variants & Trims

Generation Trim Engine Key Features
DA (2nd gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra XSi (JDM) ZC 1.6 DOHC DOHC ZC, sport suspension, 4W disc (varies)
DA (2nd gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra Si (JDM) B16A 1.6 DOHC VTEC VTEC, close-ratio 5MT, 4W disc, sport seats
DA (2nd gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra Si-VTEC (JDM) B16A 1.6 DOHC VTEC VTEC, 5MT, 4W disc, sport aero (varies)
DA (2nd gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra ZXi (JDM) D16A 1.6 SOHC SOHC 1.6, comfort trim, 4AT available
DA (2nd gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra RXi (JDM) B18A/B 1.8 DOHC 1.8 DOHC, higher torque, 5MT/4AT
DA (2nd gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra Type R (JDM, DA8/DA6-based) B16A 1.6 DOHC VTEC Type R tune, LSD (varies), weight reduction, Recaro
DA (USDM 1986-1989) Integra RS (USDM) D16A1 1.6 DOHC DOHC 1.6, 5MT/4AT, pop-up lamps
DA (USDM 1986-1989) Integra LS (USDM) D16A1 1.6 DOHC DOHC 1.6, more equipment, 5MT/4AT
DA (USDM 1986-1989) Integra GS (USDM) D16A1 1.6 DOHC DOHC 1.6, premium interior, 5MT/4AT
DA (USDM 1986-1989) Integra GS-R (USDM) D16A1 1.6 DOHC DOHC 1.6, sport suspension, 4W disc (varies)
DB/DC (3rd gen JDM/EDM, 2nd gen USDM) Integra Xi (JDM) D15B/D16A SOHC SOHC economy, 4AT available, comfort options
DB/DC (3rd gen JDM/EDM, 2nd gen USDM) Integra SiR (JDM) B16A 1.6 DOHC VTEC VTEC, 5MT, 4W disc, sport suspension
DB/DC (3rd gen JDM/EDM, 2nd gen USDM) Integra SiR-G (JDM) B18C 1.8 DOHC VTEC B18C, 5MT, LSD (some), higher redline
DB/DC (3rd gen JDM/EDM, 2nd gen USDM) Integra ZXi (JDM) D16A 1.6 SOHC SOHC 1.6, 4AT available, comfort trim
DB/DC (3rd gen JDM/EDM, 2nd gen USDM) Integra RXi (JDM) B18B 1.8 DOHC 1.8 DOHC, torque-focused, 5MT/4AT
DB/DC (3rd gen JDM/EDM, 2nd gen USDM) Integra Type R (JDM DC2) B18C 1.8 DOHC VTEC Type R, helical LSD, seam welds, Brembo (varies)
DB/DC (USDM 1990-1993) Integra RS (USDM) B18A1 1.8 DOHC 1.8 DOHC, 5MT/4AT, base equipment
DB/DC (USDM 1990-1993) Integra LS (USDM) B18A1 1.8 DOHC 1.8 DOHC, 5MT/4AT, cruise (varies)
DB/DC (USDM 1990-1993) Integra GS (USDM) B18A1 1.8 DOHC 1.8 DOHC, more equipment, 5MT/4AT
DB/DC (USDM 1990-1993) Integra GS-R (USDM) B17A1 1.7 DOHC VTEC VTEC, 5MT, 4W disc, sport suspension
DC2/DC4 (4th gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra SJ (JDM sedan) D15B/D16A SOHC Sedan, SOHC economy, 4AT available
DC2/DC4 (4th gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra SiR (JDM) B18C 1.8 DOHC VTEC B18C, 5MT, sport suspension, 4W disc
DC2/DC4 (4th gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra SiR-G (JDM) B18C 1.8 DOHC VTEC B18C, 5MT, higher spec interior, LSD (some)
DC2/DC4 (4th gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra Type R (JDM DC2 '96-spec) B18C 1.8 DOHC VTEC Type R, helical LSD, seam welds, 5MT
DC2/DC4 (4th gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra Type R (JDM DC2 '98-spec) B18C 1.8 DOHC VTEC 98-spec, improved brakes, revised aero, helical LSD
DC2/DC4 (4th gen JDM/EDM, 3rd gen USDM) Integra Type R (JDM DC2 '00-spec) B18C 1.8 DOHC VTEC 00-spec, final updates, helical LSD, 5MT
DC2/DC4 (USDM 1994-2001) Integra RS (USDM) B18B1 1.8 DOHC 1.8 DOHC, 5MT/4AT, base trim
DC2/DC4 (USDM 1994-2001) Integra LS (USDM) B18B1 1.8 DOHC 1.8 DOHC, 5MT/4AT, more equipment
DC2/DC4 (USDM 1994-2001) Integra GS (USDM) B18B1 1.8 DOHC 1.8 DOHC, premium equipment, 5MT/4AT
DC2/DC4 (USDM 1994-2001) Integra GS-R (USDM) B18C1 1.8 DOHC VTEC VTEC, 5MT/4AT, 4W disc, sport suspension
DC2/DC4 (USDM 1997-2001) Integra Type R (USDM) B18C5 1.8 DOHC VTEC Type R, helical LSD, seam welds, close 5MT
DC5 (5th gen JDM/EDM/USDM) Integra iS (JDM/EDM) K20A3/K20A 2.0 i-VTEC i-VTEC, 5MT/5AT, comfort sport mix
DC5 (5th gen JDM/EDM/USDM) Integra Type S (USDM Acura RSX Type-S) K20A2 2.0 i-VTEC 200hp class, 6MT, sport suspension, 4W disc
DC5 (5th gen JDM/EDM/USDM) Integra Type R (JDM DC5) K20A 2.0 i-VTEC Type R, LSD, Brembo, Recaro, close 6MT
DC5 (5th gen JDM/EDM/USDM) Integra Type R (JDM DC5 '05+) K20A 2.0 i-VTEC facelift, revised ECU, LSD, Brembo, 6MT
DE4/DE5 (6th gen JDM) Integra iS (JDM) K20A 2.0 i-VTEC i-VTEC, 5AT, comfort trim, 4W disc
DE4/DE5 (6th gen JDM) Integra Type S (JDM) K20A 2.0 i-VTEC sport tune, 6MT, aero, larger brakes
DE4/DE5 (6th gen JDM) Integra Type R (JDM DE5) K20A 2.0 i-VTEC Type R, LSD, Brembo, Recaro, 6MT

Should You Buy a Honda Integra DC5?

Why You'll Love It

  • Type R benchmark handling DC2/DC5 Type R deliver sharp turn-in, balance, and feedback; still a FWD reference point.
  • High-rev VTEC character B16/B18 and K20A reward revs; engaging power delivery with strong motorsport heritage.
  • Strong reliability when maintained Engines/drivetrains are durable with proper timing belt, oiling, cooling, and quality parts.
  • Huge parts & community support Excellent OEM/aftermarket availability, knowledge base, and tuning solutions worldwide.
  • Usable classic performance Practical hatch/sedan packaging, good visibility, and low running costs vs many JDM rivals.
  • Collector upside for clean cars Unmodified, documented Type R and GS-R/SiR examples show sustained demand and liquidity.

Why You Might Not

  • Rust is a major value killer Rear quarters, sills, floors, strut towers, and subframes rust; repairs are costly and visible.
  • Many are modified or abused Track/drift/stance builds, engine swaps, and poor wiring reduce value and reliability.
  • Theft risk and insurance issues High theft rates for Type R/GS-R parts; consider immobilizers, trackers, and secure storage.
  • Aging interior & trim scarcity OEM Recaros, dash plastics, weatherstrips, and Type R-specific bits can be expensive to source.
  • Import compliance complexity RHD/JDM imports need careful paperwork, emissions/state rules, and parts compatibility checks.
  • FWD limits vs RWD rivals Torque steer and traction limits appear with power mods; big builds need LSD and chassis work.

Who Should NOT Buy This

  • Anyone needing modern crash safety and airbags
  • Buyers who can't tolerate 25+ year old car issues
  • People without a trusted Honda/JDM specialist shop
  • Drivers who need quiet cabin and zero rattles
  • Those who require perfect A/C in hot climates
  • Owners who can't budget $1k-3k for surprise repairs
  • People who must pass strict emissions inspections
  • California residents if engine swap/cat not compliant
  • Anyone who won't do frequent fluid maintenance
  • Buyers who hate stiff ride on Type R/coilovers
  • Tall drivers over 6'2" wanting helmet clearance
  • Families needing real rear seats and easy child seats
  • People who park outside in rust/salt environments
  • Anyone expecting theft-proof ownership without effort
  • Buyers who want stock, unmodified examples cheaply
  • Those unwilling to walk from poorly done mods/swaps
  • People who need automatic-only convenience
  • Owners who can't store it securely (high theft risk)
  • Anyone expecting cheap OEM parts for rare JDM trims
  • Drivers who won't accept premium fuel requirements

Common Issues & Solutions

Issue Cause Solution Est. Cost
2nd/3rd gear synchro grind Worn synchros from hard shifting/old fluid Rebuild trans w/synchros; use correct MTF $1200-3000
Manual trans input bearing whine Bearing wear, low/dirty fluid, high mileage Transmission rebuild; replace bearings/seals $1500-3500
Clutch slip or chatter Worn disc/pressure plate; oil contamination Replace clutch kit; resurface flywheel; fix leaks $700-1600
Rear main seal oil leak Aged seal; crankcase pressure; high mileage Replace rear main seal during clutch service $600-1400
VTEC solenoid gasket leak Hardened gasket and screen clogging Replace gasket/screen; clean; verify oil pressure $80-250
Cam seal/cap oil leak Aged seals; poor prior service; crankcase pressure Replace cam seals/cap seal; reseal as needed $200-600
Oil pan seep/leak Old RTV, pan dents, over-torqued bolts Reseal pan; straighten/replace if dented $200-500
Blue smoke on decel Valve stem seals worn from age/heat Replace valve seals; inspect guides; valve job if needed $900-2200
Blue smoke on accel Worn rings/cylinder wear; poor maintenance Engine rebuild or replacement long block $2500-7000
Idle hunting/surging Dirty IACV/FITV, vacuum leaks, TB carbon Clean/repair IACV/FITV; smoke test; base idle set $150-600
Random misfire at idle Bad plugs/wires/coil, valve lash, grounds Tune-up; adjust valves; repair grounds/wiring $150-800
Valve lash noise/tick Valves out of adjustment; neglected service Adjust valve lash; inspect cam lobes $200-500
Timing belt overdue (B-series) Skipped service interval; unknown history Replace belt, tensioner, water pump, seals $600-1200
Timing chain/tensioner wear K-series tensioner wear; low oil; high miles Replace chain/tensioner/guides; inspect VTC gear $900-2200
Overheating in traffic Bad fan switch/relay, clogged rad, stuck thermostat Diagnose fans; replace radiator/thermostat as needed $250-900
Radiator end tank crack Aged plastic tanks; heat cycling Replace radiator and cap; bleed system properly $250-650
Head gasket failure Prior overheating; detonation; poor tune Head gasket job; check head flatness; new bolts $1200-2800
Heater core leak Corrosion/age; coolant neglect Replace heater core; flush system; new hoses $800-1600
Power steering pump whine Old fluid, pump wear, suction leak at O-ring Replace O-ring; flush; rebuild/replace pump $80-600
Steering rack leak/play Worn seals/bushings; torn boots; age Replace/reseal rack; align; replace tie rods $700-1600
Front LCA bushing failure Aged rubber; lowered cars stress bushings Replace bushings or arms; align afterward $300-900
Ball joint wear/failure Age, torn boots, lowered suspension angles Replace ball joints/arms immediately; safety item $250-800
Wheel bearing hum Bearing wear; track use; impacts Replace hub/bearing; check knuckle condition $300-900
CV axle vibration/click Worn joints; torn boots; cheap reman axles Use quality axles; replace seals; torque axle nut $250-700
Brake caliper slider seize Lack of grease; torn boots; corrosion Rebuild/replace calipers; new hardware; flush fluid $250-800
Rusty brake hard lines Road salt; aged coatings; neglected underbody Replace lines; inspect hoses; full bleed $400-1200
ABS sensor/wiring faults Broken sensor wires; rust at tone rings Repair wiring; replace sensors; clean tone rings $200-900
Hatch/trunk water leaks Bad seals, tail light gaskets, clogged drains Replace seals/gaskets; clear drains; reseal seams $100-600
Sunroof drain overflow Clogged drains; cracked drain tubes Clear/replace drains; dry interior; treat mold $100-500
Floor/spare well rust Chronic water intrusion; salt exposure Cut/patch weld; treat rust; fix leak source $500-2500
Rear quarter/arch rust Trapped debris in arch lip; poor prior repairs Proper metal repair; avoid filler-only fixes $800-4000
Cracked dash/rattles UV exposure; age; prior interior removal Dash cap/replace; add clips/foam for rattles $150-1200
Window regulator failure Worn cables/plastic guides; dry tracks Replace regulator; lube tracks; check switches $200-500
Door lock actuator weak Motor wear; sticky linkages; low voltage Replace actuator; service linkage; verify grounds $150-450
Alternator weak/charging drop Worn brushes/diodes; heat; oil contamination Replace alternator; fix oil leaks; belt tension $250-650
Aftermarket wiring gremlins Alarm/audio hacks; poor grounds; twisted splices Remove hacks; re-pin/repair harness; add grounds $200-1500
Engine swap integration issues Wrong ECU/harness; sensor mismatch; bad mounts Correct ECU/harness; proper mounts; professional tune $500-4000
Catalyst missing/clogged Stolen cat; cheap exhaust; rich tune melts cat Install correct cat; fix fueling; new O2 sensors $300-1800
O2 sensor slow response Aged sensor; exhaust leaks; wiring damage Fix leaks; replace O2; verify fuel trims $150-450
Fuel pump whining/failure Old pump; clogged sock; running low on fuel often Replace pump/filter; clean tank if contaminated $250-700
Fuel smell/leaking lines Aged rubber lines; cracked filler neck hoses Replace hoses/clamps; inspect hard lines $150-600
Engine mounts torn Age; aggressive driving; stiff aftermarket mounts Replace mounts; avoid ultra-stiff street setups $250-900
Exhaust manifold crack/leak Heat cycling; thin aftermarket headers Weld/replace manifold; new gaskets; check studs $200-900
A/C weak or inop Leaks at seals; compressor wear; condenser damage Leak test; replace failed parts; evacuate/recharge $300-1500

Pre-Purchase Inspection Checklist

Critical Priority

  • VIN/Chassis ID Verify VIN tags match; check for tampering
  • Import/Title Status Confirm legal import/title; no salvage branding
  • Accident Structure Check apron rails for wrinkles/uneven seams
  • Frame Rails Inspect rails for kinks, rust, crushed jack points
  • Roof/A-Pillars Check for ripples; signs of rollover repair
  • Underbody Rust Probe floor seams; look for flaking scale
  • Engine Cold Start Start cold; listen for knock, valvetrain tick
  • Oil Condition Check level/color; fuel smell or glitter is bad
  • Cooling System Check rad end tanks, hoses; pressure test if possible
  • Overheat History Check for warped head signs: bubbles, pressurizing
  • Compression Test Verify even compression across cylinders
  • Leakdown Test Confirm ring/valve health; listen at intake/exhaust
  • Timing Belt Service B-series: verify belt/water pump date & receipts
  • Exhaust Smoke Blue smoke on decel = seals; accel = rings
  • Transmission Syncros 2nd/3rd grind on fast shifts; test hot and cold
  • Ball Joints Check for play; torn boots; safety-critical
  • Brake Lines Inspect hard lines for rust; flex lines for cracks
  • Engine Mods Quality Check tune, injectors, fuel pump, wiring, sensors
  • Turbo/Supercharger Check oil feed/return, smoke, boost creep, tune
  • Swap Legitimacy Verify engine code/ECU/harness; emissions legality

High Priority

  • Front Core Support Look for non-OE welds, bent rad support
  • Rear Quarter Panels Check for filler, waviness, overspray at edges
  • Rear Wheel Arches Check inner lip rust; bubbling under paint
  • Rocker Panels Inspect pinch welds; rust, crushed from jacks
  • Spare Tire Well Lift carpet; check for water, rust, repairs
  • Oil Leaks Inspect VTEC solenoid, cam seals, oil pan, rear main
  • Coolant Quality Look for oil film/rust; confirm proper Honda coolant
  • Timing Chain Noise K-series: listen for chain rattle; check tensioner
  • Idle Quality Watch for hunting idle; IACV/FITV/throttle issues
  • VTEC Engagement Confirm VTEC hits clean; no CEL or limp mode
  • Fuel System Check fuel smell; inspect lines, filter, pump noise
  • Fuel Tank Rust Older cars: inspect tank straps and filler neck
  • Radiator Fans Confirm both fans cycle; check relays/switch
  • Heater Operation Check heat output; sweet smell = heater core leak
  • Clutch/Engagement Check slip in 3rd/4th; high bite point
  • Axles/CV Joints Check torn boots; clicking on full lock
  • Wheel Bearings Listen for hum; check play at 12/6 o'clock
  • Suspension Bushings Inspect compliance/LCAs; cracked rubber, clunks
  • Tie Rods Check inner/outer play; steering wander
  • Steering Rack Look for leaks; feel for dead spot or binding
  • Brake Calipers Check seized sliders; uneven pad wear
  • Brake Pedal Feel Spongy pedal = air/leaks; hard pedal = booster
  • ECU/OBD Codes Scan for codes; check readiness monitors if OBD2
  • Wiring Hacks Look for splices for alarm/audio/engine swap
  • SRS/Airbags SRS light on = expensive; check crash sensor wiring
  • Interior Water Leaks Check wet carpets; musty smell; under-seat rust
  • Pedal Box/Firewall Check clutch pedal bracket cracks; squeaks
  • Test Drive Heat Soak Drive 20+ min; watch temp, idle, hot restart
  • Catalyst Status Confirm cat present; no rattles; emissions risk
  • Service Records Look for timing service, valve adj, fluid intervals

Medium Priority

  • Windshield Cowl Check for leaks; rust at cowl corners
  • Door Bottoms Inspect drain holes; rust and swelling seams
  • Hatch/Trunk Seals Check seal tears; water trails in cargo area
  • Sunroof Drains Pour water; confirm drains flow, no headliner stains
  • Paint Consistency Check panel gaps; mismatched orange peel/texture
  • Vacuum Leaks Check cracked hoses; brake booster hiss
  • Engine Mounts Check for excessive movement; torn mounts
  • PCV System Check PCV valve; excessive crankcase pressure
  • Hydraulic Clutch Inspect master/slave leaks; spongy pedal
  • LSD Function Type R/SiR: tight turns; listen for chatter/lock
  • Power Steering Pump Listen for whine; check fluid condition and leaks
  • ABS System Confirm ABS light off; test on gravel if safe
  • Wheels/Tires Check bent wheels; uneven wear indicates alignment
  • Alignment/Tracking Road test: pull, steering off-center, tramlining
  • Charging System Check alternator output; dim lights at idle
  • Ground Straps Inspect engine/chassis grounds; random misfires
  • HVAC Controls Test all modes; blend door issues on older cars
  • A/C Performance Check vent temp; compressor noise; leaks at lines
  • Window Regulators Slow/stuck windows; listen for cable crunch
  • Seat Rails Check wobble; broken rails from track use
  • Braking Vibration Check for rotor warp; suspension play can mimic
  • Clunk Over Bumps Listen for endlinks, top hats, bushings, mounts
  • Wheel Hop Hard accel: check mounts, bushings, axles
  • Exhaust Leaks Check manifold cracks, donut gasket, flex pipe
  • O2 Sensors Check fuel trims; lazy O2 causes poor MPG
  • Keys/Immobilizer Confirm all keys; immobilizer issues on newer DC5

Generation History

1st Gen DA1/DA2/DA3 (1985-1989)

  • Pop-up headlamps; early sporty Honda coupe
  • D-series/ZC engines; light curb weights
  • Period-correct classic; limited US collector focus

2nd Gen DA/DB (1989-1993)

  • First widely loved Integra shape; double wishbone
  • B16A VTEC in JDM; strong aftermarket support
  • Rust and age are primary concerns today

3rd Gen DC/DB (1993-2001)

  • Peak Integra era; DC2/DB8 chassis is the icon
  • Type R (JDM/USDM) sets benchmark for FWD handling
  • B18C variants; huge parts ecosystem and tuning scene

4th Gen DC5 (2001-2006)

  • K-series era; Type R with K20A i-VTEC
  • More rigid, modern; different feel vs DC2
  • JDM DC5R values strong; USDM RSX Type-S cheaper

Market Data

Production Numbers & Rarity

Generation Years Total Built Notes
1st gen (AV/DA0/DA3; market dependent) 1985-1989 unknown (estimated ~300,000+) Global totals not centrally published; estimate
2nd gen (DA; JDM/EDM) / 1st gen USDM 1989-1993 unknown (estimated ~500,000+) Multiple plants/markets; no single official total
3rd gen (DB/DC; JDM/EDM) / 2nd gen USDM 1993-2001 (varies by market) unknown (estimated ~1,000,000+) High-volume era; Type R is small subset
4th/5th gen (DC5; global) 2001-2006 unknown (estimated ~300,000-400,000) Includes Acura RSX; Type R is low volume
6th gen (DE; JDM only) 2007-2011 unknown (estimated ~20,000-40,000) Japan-only; Type R rare vs mainstream models

Rarest variant: Integra Type R (DA)

How It Compares

Feature DC5 Nissan Skyline R33 GTS25T Toyota Supra JZA80
Layout/Drive FWD, I4 NA RWD, I6 TT RWD, I6 NA/TT
Icon trim DC2/DB8 Type R FD3S Type R/RS Evo IV-VI GSR/RS
Power (stock) DC2R ~197hp (JDM) FD3S ~255hp (JDM) Evo V ~276hp (JDM)
Weight (approx) DC2R ~2,350 lb FD3S ~2,800 lb Evo V ~3,000 lb
Handling feel Light, precise, playful Balanced, RWD, boosty AWD grip, heavier nose
Engine family B-series / K-series 13B-REW rotary SR20DET turbo I4
Reliability baseline High if maintained Higher upkeep (rotary) Good; turbo adds heat
Running costs Low-moderate Moderate-high Moderate-high
Tuning headroom NA gains modest; swaps Big gains w/ boost Big gains w/ boost
Collector demand Very strong (Type R) Strong (clean turbo cars) Strong (halo model)
Practicality Hatch/sedan, usable Coupe, tight rear 2+2, larger footprint
USDM counterpart Integra GS-R / Type R Civic Si/SiR RSX Type-S
Track-day value Excellent consumables Higher tire/brake costs Higher tire/brake costs

Comparable Alternatives

Acura Integra Type R

USDM DC2R; LHD, easier parts; still pricey

Honda Civic EK9 Type R

Similar B16 VTEC feel; lighter; prices often higher

Acura RSX Type-S

K20 power, modern chassis; cheaper than JDM DC5R

Toyota Celica GT-Four ST205

Turbo AWD pace; more complex but strong JDM appeal

Nissan Silvia S15 Spec R

RWD turbo alternative; higher running costs, strong demand

Frequently Asked Questions

Which Integra is the most collectible?
The DC2/DB8 Type R is top. Next: clean GS-R/SiR and JDM DC5 Type R with documentation.
What are typical problem areas to inspect?
Check rust, accident repairs, timing belt history, oil leaks, cooling system, and worn bushings/ball joints.
Are JDM Type R cars better than USDM?
JDM DC2R often has spec differences and cachet, but condition matters most. USDM ITR can be easier to own.
How much does modification hurt value?
Heavily modified cars usually sell for less. OEM+ with receipts may be acceptable; cut wiring and swaps hurt most.
What maintenance is non-negotiable?
Timing belt/water pump, quality oil, valve adjustment, fresh coolant, and addressing suspension wear are essential.
Is the Integra good for track days?
Yes—great chassis and low consumable costs. Prioritize brakes, cooling, quality tires, and an LSD if needed.
What drives Integra prices the most?
Trim (Type R), originality, rust-free shell, mileage, documentation, and rare OEM parts (Recaros, aero, wheels).
When is it US-legal to import?
Under the 25-year rule, eligibility depends on build month/year. For example, 1999 cars become legal in 2024.

Sources & References