Acura Automobile Division will offer the high-performance, limited-edition Integra Type R Sports Coupe again for the 1998 model year.
Introduced last year, the Integra Type R features a 195-horsepower, 1.8-liter, dual-overhead-cam, 16-valve VTEC inline 4-cylinder engine that puts out more horsepower per liter than any other normally aspirated mass-produced engine in the U.S. And, like Acura's top-of-the-line exotic sports car - the NSX -the Integra Type R features numerous technological innovations that maximize performance and handling, while providing high levels of safety, durability and efficiency.
"The Integra Type R really took the automotive press by storm last year, showing off its enthusiast appeal," said Rich Thomas, Acura's executive vice president and general manager. "Response from the public has been overwhelming as well and we are pleased to be able to offer this special edition in the 1998 model line up."
Among the Integra Type R's new product changes for 1998 are updated front and rear facias including new bumper and lighting designs like the regular Integra models. In addition, the Type R gains a rear wiper/washer.
One of the Type R's most notable engineering achievements is its high-revving VTEC engine. Features unique to the Type R include hand-polished intake and exhaust ports and single-port intake manifold; a larger-diameter exhaust system to allow larger volume flow; and a torque-sensitive helical limited-slip differential.
Outstanding cornering response and enhanced braking performance also are hallmarks of this limited edition vehicle. These are made possible by features such as an overall vehicle weight reduction by 93 pounds (compared to the Integra GS-R); lower overall vehicle height (by 15 mm compared to the GS-R) and aerodynamic refinements - such as a chin spoiler, wing-type rear spoiler and sculpted side sills which are body-colored - that result in 30% less lift (Cl) and 1% less drag (Cd); racetrack-calibrated suspension, high-performance tires and lightweight aluminum alloy wheels; larger disk brakes with performance-oriented calipers; refined Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS); and a reinforced unit-body structure.
The interior of the Type R also has a distinctly racing look and sporty feel. Features include sport-style seats, a special serial number plate on the center console, a leather-wrapped steering wheel and shift knob, carbon fiber-like instrumentation surrounded by amber-illuminated gauges, and an exclusive Type R ignition key.
Once again the Integra Type R will be available exclusively in Championship White - to commemorate the company's first-ever Formula One racing victory by Ritchie Ginther in the 1965 Mexican Grand Prix.
The Integra Type R is scheduled to be released in the Spring of 1998.