Acura Integra Type-R By Honda.
The Type R was the pinnacle of the Acura Integra line. It had many exclusive features found on no previous Acura models.
Visually, the Type R's distinguishing exterior features are the color (white on 1998 and earlier cars, black or yellow on 2000 and 2001 models), the aerodynamic enhancements (front air dam, rocker panels, and rear spoiler), and the Type R alloy wheels. The Acura Integra interior was fitted with unique upholstery on the seats (black cloth with red stitching), fake carbon fiber trim around the gauge cluster, a six-speaker Bose stereo system, and a numbered plaque on the center arm rest. Each car also came with a special Acura Integra Type R key in addition to the two master keys and the valet key
The Acur Integra Type R's B18C5 engine contained more key differences than just some manual assembly steps and an increased redline. The B16A's cylinder head returned, with differently shaped combustion chambers and intake ports compared to the regular B18C in the GS-R. Molybdenum-coated, high compression pistons and stronger-but-lighter connecting rods strengthened the reciprocating assembly. Two extra counterweights on the crankshaft altered its vibration modes to enhance durability at high RPM. The Acura Integra intake valves were reshaped with a thinner stem and crown that reduced weight and improved flow. The Acura Integra intake ports were given a minor port and polish. Stiffer valve springs resisted float on more aggressive camshafts. Intake air was now drawn from inside the fender well, for a colder, denser charge. That intake fed a short-runner intake manifold with a larger throttle body for better breathing. An improved stainless steel exhaust collector with gentler merge angles, a change to a larger, consistent piping diameter, flared internal piping in the muffler allowed easier exit of gases. A retuned engine computer also contributed to the Acura integra improved power output.
The Acura Integra transmission was upgraded with lower and closer gear ratios in second through fifth gears, in order to take advantage of the additional rev range. The North American version of the Acura Integra retained the same 4.4 final drive throughout the Type R's production run, unlike the Japanese version, which in 1998 changed to a 4.785 final drive along with revised gearing. The GS-R's open differential was replaced with a torque-sensing limited slip type.
The Acura Integra chassis received enhancements in the form of reinforcements to the rear wheel wells, roof rail, and other key areas. "Performance rods", chassis braces that were bolted in place, were added to the rear trunk wall and rear sub frame. The Acura Integra front strut tower bar was replaced with a stronger aluminum piece. Camber rigidity was improved at the rear by increasing wheel bearing span by 10 mm. The Acura Integra Type R's body also received a new functional rear spoiler, body-colored rocker panels, and 5-bolt hubs with special lightweight Type R wheels. Under those wheels was a much larger set of disc brakes, front and back. The tires were upgraded to Bridgestone RE010 "summer" tires.
The Acura Integra Type R received very aggressive tuning in its suspension settings. All soft rubber bushings were replaced with much stiffer versions, as much as 5.3 times higher in durometer readings. The springs and dampers were much stiffer, with a 10 mm reduction in ride height. The rear anti-roll bar diameter was increased to 22 mm in diameter. The front anti-roll bar retained the same size, although the end links were changed to a more responsive sealed ball joint as opposed to a rubber bushing on the lesser models. The result was a Acura Integra chassis with very responsive, racetrack-ready handling that ably absorbed mid-corner bumps. Mild oversteer was easy to induce with a lift of the throttle, and during steady-state cornering the car maintained a slight tail-out stance.
Several features were removed from the Acura Integra Type R to reduce weight. There was no cruise control or sunroof. The air conditioning system was optional, and nearly all the sound-dampening material was eliminated. This provided for a much noisier ride, but since the Acura Integra Type R was marketed as a race car for the street, most owners didn't mind. The 1997 street, most owners didn't mind. The 1997 Acura Integra models had no rear wiper; this feature was reinstated for the 1998 and later Acura Integra model years.
- · Acura Integra Type-R
- · Acura Integra GS-R.
- · Acura Integra Key Features.
- · B18C5 Acura Integra Engine
- · Upgraded 5 Speed Acura Integr Transmission
- · Upgraded Acura Integra Suspension
- · New Light Weight Acura Integra Wheels
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