They Rejected $103K for This 25-Year-Old Acura Integra Type R | Carscoops

      Despite some significant bidding activity, the owner chose not to sell their low-mileage Type R.

      A pristine Acura Integra Type R did not find a buyer even with a $103K auction offer.

      This 2000s classic has only 10K miles and includes tasteful performance enhancements from Mugen.

      It is powered by a 1.8-liter B18 four-cylinder engine with quality aftermarket additions.

      There’s something uniquely pleasing about witnessing performance legends from the 1990s and 2000s command prices that outstrip modern luxury vehicles, which often boast more power, advanced technology, and numerous cupholders. The DC2-generation Acura Integra Type R is one such vehicle, often celebrated as one of the best-handling front-wheel drive cars ever produced and a true emblem of the golden age of the Japanese domestic market. Consequently, pristine, low-mileage versions have seen their values soar over recent years.

      Earlier this week, one of these coveted 2000 Acura Integra Type Rs went up for auction. Bidding reached an impressive $102,989 but was still below the seller's reserve price.

      For context, a brand-new Honda Civic Type R can be purchased for just over $47,000 in the US, or one could opt for a V8-powered Lexus LC 500 starting at $101,10. Although this 25-year-old Integra doesn’t offer double the power of the Honda, it is considerably rarer and holds a nostalgic charm that modern cars cannot replicate. It has only accumulated about 10,000 miles, or around 16,000 kilometers, and has been tastefully modified with several enhancements.

      Rare Spec, Light Touch

      The highest-priced DC2R sold on Bring a Trailer was a yellow example with only about 7,000 miles (11,200 km), which fetched $112,112 in early 2022 during the peak of the COVID-19 pandemic surge. This Flamenco Black Pearl model has been with the selling dealer since 2014 and includes a clean Iowa title along with a clear Carfax report.

      The thoughtful upgrades start with the installation of forged 16-inch Mugen wheels. A previous owner has also added A’Pexi WS coilovers and Mugen strut tower bars at both the front and rear. Upgraded brakes have also been installed, and there’s more happening under the hood.

      Under the hood, Honda’s renowned B18 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine remains intact and is now paired with Mugen headers, a new exhaust system, an aluminum radiator, Spoon Sports hoses, a fresh valve cover, and an ARC air intake. Importantly, it still transmits power to the front wheels through the original manual gearbox.

      Some minor alterations have also been made to the interior. Recaro seats from a Japanese Integra Type R have been installed along with new alloy pedals. Although the cabin lacks many of the features you would expect from a modern hot hatch, this absence means that nothing distracts from the driving experience.

      So, is this low-mileage, lightly modified Integra Type R genuinely worth more than twice as much as a new Civic Type R, or are we simply indulging in nostalgia and clean engine bays? Share your thoughts with us.