Acura Integra Type R: Heating Up the High Performance Market

The 2001 Acura Integra Type R, featuring NSX inspired technology, is designed for the driving enthusiast. The Type R offers drivers what no other manufacturer can: the nimble performance capabilities, look and feel of a hand-crafted racer available in a ready-to-drive package.

"The Type R continues to be the best car in its class for driving enthusiasts who are looking for an exciting car with exceptional acceleration, braking and handling qualities," said Dick Colliver, executive vice president, Acura division.

The all-aluminum, 1.8-liter Integra powerplant featured in the Type R has been specially tuned to produce 195-horsepower at 8,000 rpm and 130 lb.-ft. of torque at 7,300 rpm, making it one of the most powerful 4-cylinder powerplants available in America today. This power is developed through numerous engineering advancements, including the patented VTEC? (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system pioneered in the Acura NSX supercar. VTEC helps provide optimum performance at all engine speeds to broaden the torque curve and increase peak power output.

Additional powerplant enhancements, which contribute to the Integra Type R's high-revving power output, include high-compression, low friction pistons, high performance camshafts and valve gear, large diameter throttle body and a high-flow intake manifold and exhaust system.

The Type R's increase in power is transferred to the wheels through an ultra close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission with a heavy-duty clutch to accommodate the additional power. Coupled to a torque-sensitive, helical type limited-slip differential to increase traction and reduce understeer, the Type R is at home on the racetrack as well as on the highway.

Improvements to the powerplant account for only part of the performance refinements made in the Type R's transformation from a standard Integra coupe. Ride height has been decreased by 15 mm to lower the center of gravity through exclusive suspension springs and shocks, allowing for racecar-like handling. Large disc brakes with increased rotor and caliper size allow the Type R to stop more quickly, while a refined Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS) modulator enhances steering control under hard braking. In addition, a computer-designed aluminum front strut tower brace and numerous structural reinforcements to the body greatly reduce flexing for a solid ride and confident handling.

Rounding out the performance package, the Type R sports exclusively designed 15-inch aluminum wheels, which feature increased offset and a 5-bolt lug pattern. To provide excellent traction, stability and outstanding road feel, the wheels are mounted with specifically engineered Bridgestone Potenza RE010 tires, similar to those found on the Acura NSX.

To compliment the engine and performance enhancements of the Type R, the vehicle has undergone a 33 lb. weight reduction compared to the GS-R Sports Coupe, while retaining creature comforts like standard air conditioning.

Externally, the Type R features exclusive appearance upgrades from the GS-R Sports Coupe, including a front chin spoiler, rear wing-type spoiler and body colored side sills, which improve aerodynamics. In the cockpit, unique sport-style seats, carbon fiber style instrument panel, a special serial number plate on the center console and an aluminum shifter knob set apart the Type R from other Integras. Offered in two sporty colors, Nighthawk Black and Phoenix Yellow, the Type R reminds the driver that this Integra is an extremely special vehicle.

The 2001 Integra Type R, like all Acura vehicles, is covered by a comprehensive 4-year/50,000-mile bumper-to-bumper limited warranty. Additional ownership benefits include Acura Total Luxury Care (TLC), which provides free 24-hour roadside assistance, concierge service and trip routing.

Acura offers a full line of premium performance vehicles through a nationwide network of nearly 260 dealers. The Acura line up features six distinctive models including the exotic NSX supercar, the 3.5 RL flagship luxury sedan, the best-selling 3.2 TL luxury performance sedan, the all-new 3.2 CL luxury performance coupe, the fun-to-drive Integra and the revolutionary MDX luxury sport utility vehicle. For more information about Acura vehicles, please visit www.acura.com.