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← Acura Integra · 1994-2001 · DC2

Acura Integra DC2

Type R is the legend, GS-R is the daily. The K-swap base layer for a generation of tuners.

Verdict
S
BHP
142-195 bhp
0–60
6.2 s
Top speed
143 mph
MPG
27.0 mpg
Used
$8,000-$120,000

The DC2 came in three meaningful US-market specs: the LS/RS/SE/GS (B18B1, 142 hp, the daily-driver versions), the GS-R (B18C1 VTEC, 170 hp, the enthusiast everyman), and the Type R (B18C5, 195 hp, the track special). Coupe (DC2) and sedan (DB8) bodies, but the Type R was coupe-only. A 1998 mid-cycle facelift updated the front end — Type R got the new lights for 2000-2001 only. All Integras in this generation kept Honda's traditional double-wishbone suspension front and rear — the last Integra to do so, since the DC5/RSX successor switched to MacPherson struts up front. Type R production for the US: 320 cars in 1997, 1,000 in 1998, 1,350 in 2000, 1,158 in 2001 — a total of 3,828 across four model years. Championship White was the only color in '97-'98; Phoenix Yellow and Flamenco/Nighthawk Black Pearl joined for 2000-2001.

Strengths

  • Type R is one of the greatest front-drive cars ever made — full stop
  • B-series engines (B18C1/B18C5) are bulletproof and rev to 8,100 rpm
  • Double-wishbone suspension at all four corners — superb cornering
  • Helical LSD standard on Type R
  • Massive aftermarket and engine-swap culture
  • Type R values still climbing, GS-R appreciating

Weaknesses

  • Type R prices have moved out of attainable territory
  • Honda B-series timing belt service every 7 years/90k miles
  • Theft target — verify VINs match documents
  • Heavily modified examples dominate the used market
  • Rust on rear arches, sills and undercarriage on northern cars

Notable tech

  • B18C5 set the production-car record for naturally-aspirated specific output (108 hp/L) in the US
  • Helical limited-slip diff on Type R
  • Close-ratio 5-speed manual on Type R with shorter 2nd-4th gearing
  • Hand-polished intake and exhaust ports on Type R engines
  • Stiffer chassis bracing and thicker windshield glass on Type R
  • 1998 facelift brought updated headlights, bumpers and interior

Common issues

  • Distributor failure on early B-series (oil leak from front main)
  • Cracked exhaust manifold on B18C engines
  • Worn shifter bushings — easy fix
  • Rust around rear arches and rocker panels
  • Climate-control LCD pixelation
  • Thefts — confirm VIN match, ECU originality on Type R

Used-market budget

$25,000

Typical price for a clean, unmolested GS-R coupe with documented service. Type R clean examples now $80,000-$150,000+ depending on year, mileage and condition. LS/GS daily-driver examples start around $5,000-$10,000.