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Japmobiles.com review
The DC5 Honda Integra Type R never made it to the UK officially.
Launched shortly after the EP3 Civic Type R Honda felt there
wasn't room for both, and if forum opinion was to go by, many
would have gone for the new ITR over the tamer Civic.
For many the DC2 Integra Type R was and still is the definitive
Type R, so the DC5 had a lot to live up to. Featuring chunkier
styling, increased power and an increased capacity, increased
chassis rigidity, more positive steering, improved grip and
better brakes.
The most controversial change is the engine. Gone is the
hard edged 1.8 litre B18C VTEC engine, and in it's place sits
Honda's more refined 2-litre i-VTEC unit. The K20A engine
combines VTEC's variable valve lift with continuously variable
intake cam timing - advancing and retarding the intake cam
over 50 degrees to produce 217bhp. Torque is up 21lb ft from
the old B18C engine to 152lb ft with considerably flatter
power and torque curves. The high lift cams kick in at 6000rpm
pulling hard to the limiter at 8400rpm. The well weighted
six-speed gearbox provides a short throw ensuring a swift
change within the power band applying the power via the LSD.
Huge improvements have been made in the structural rigidity
coupled with stiffer suspension improving both road and track
performance. Infact it would be rude not to take the Integra
Type R out on track seeing as the roof line is now 60mm taller
to accommodate the use of a helmet. Unlike it's K20A cousin,
the Civic Type R, the Integra is equipped with traditional
mechanical power steering increasing feel throughout the 2.6
turns lock to lock. The wheels are now 17 inch items to help
clear the front 300mm vented discs clamped by Brembo four-pot
calipers. Each brake assembly saves 2.3kg but overall the
DC5 Integra Type R gained 72kg due to the larger engine and
increased crash structures.
As with any JDM built Type R the interior of the Integra
is finished with Recaro seats and Momo steering wheel. Yes
it might be a little larger, and a little more refined than
the out going and dare I say classic DC2, but if you're looking
for the best new Type R available the Integra is the one to
go for.
source:
www.japmobiles.com
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