Is there a more desirable Integra than this one? Probably not
Although the current Acura Integra is a great car in isolation, it has failed to capture the imagination of Honda and Acura enthusiasts the way older Integras have, specifically the third-generation model that first arrived in the 1990s.
Now, one of the most desirable Integras ever is up for auction on Bring A Trailer. This 2001 Type R has ultra-low miles, is in impeccable condition, and is one of not many to be built for the U.S. market. The combination of these factors has created a heated bidding war that is now deep into six figures.
From Under $25k To At Least $120k
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When purchased new in Illinois, this 2001 Acura Integra Type R had a total price of $24,930. Around 25 years later, the current bid for this iconic compact is sitting at $120,000. You can buy two brand-new Integra Type S models with a 355-horsepower V6 and still have plenty left over for that amount.
There’s still something irreplaceable about this 2001 model’s four rounded headlights, sporty two-door shape, and cheeky rear wing, though, especially in this eye-catching Phoenix Yellow paint. The prominent Type R badging makes it instantly recognizable.
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Under the hood is a 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine rated for 195 horsepower and 130 lb-ft of torque. The buzzy VTEC engine is paired to a sweet five-speed manual gearbox, and there’s also a limited-slip differential. At the time, this was considered one of the best-handling front-wheel-drive cars available anywhere, a legacy that Honda continues to live up to with today’s Civic Type R.
The four-pot has covered just 4,800 miles, which is nothing for this feisty engine that can rev up to 8,400 rpm with ease.
Immaculate Interior
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Inside, this Type R has a black cloth interior with red stitching on the seats, which also have microsuede inserts. The simple gauges show a tachometer that goes all the way up to 10,000 rpm, a wonderful reminder of high-revving, naturally-aspirated engines. The Acura comes with air conditioning, an audio system with six speakers, power windows, dual front airbags, power mirrors, and a center armrest with the Type R badge.Â
This particular example is #1,086 of just 1,173 examples built for the United States, and it’s hard to imagine that any of the others are in better shape. A clean CarFax report and title add peace of mind, as does the fact that the battery and hydraulic fluids were replaced in 2022. The engine oil was last changed back in 2020, so that’s something the lucky new owner will want to look at, despite the low mileage.
It’s going to be fascinating to see if the winning bid exceeds $120k, and we’ll know the answer to that soon.
About the author
Karl Furlong
Senior Editor, Autoblog