What is it?
2002 Honda Civic Type R
What's special about it?
The Civic Type R built at Honda's factory in Swindon, England, is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine, and Honda reports the car will hit 60 mph in less than 7 seconds. The exterior styling, in addition to giving the car a very sporty visual appeal, is more than just cosmetic. The chin spoiler, side sill valences, rear under spoiler and larger roof spoiler have been shaped to provide improved aerodynamic performance. Enhanced by 17-inch alloy wheels with low-profile tires, a ride height lowered by 15 mm and the squat, wide-track design of the Civic three-door, the looks leave little doubt as to the high-performance intent of the Type R. Adding to the overall aesthetic is a mesh-effect front grille complete with Type R script, black-plated headlamp sub-reflectors and chrome tail pipes. Complementing the engine is a new six-speed manual gearbox. Closely spaced ratios ensure that engine revs remain within the power band during acceleration. Thanks to the outstanding qualities of the Integra and Accord, Honda's Type R portfolio has come to symbolize exceptional dynamic ability, innovative engineering and an exhilarating driving experience in a unique road car package. The new Civic Type R promises to enhance that reputation still further. A strut brace across the rear of the engine bay increases horizontal rigidity at the front of the car by 17 percent, while at the rear, vertical rigidity is boosted 23 percent through locating an additional strut between the wheel arches. Firmer dampers and springs and alloy wheels shod with 205/45R17 tires connect the car to the road. Larger front disc brakes than the standard Civic three-door, with a firmer pedal action, ensure stopping ability to match the Type R's high-performance potential. The Type R's performance credentials are signaled further by white-faced gauges and a titanium-look shift knob. Additional bits include an embroidered Type R logo at the base of the headrest and red stitching on both the seats and the steering wheel. Door and seat inserts, together with center console trim, are finished in a titanium-like metallic color for an air of added sophistication.
Why should you care?
The Civic Type R is the child of the race-oriented Integra Type R. Since that car was sold in the States on and off over the years, we can only hope to see something like this, too. Don't hold your breath. But you can pray, if you want. —Miles Cook
2002 Honda Civic Type R
What's special about it?
The Civic Type R built at Honda's factory in Swindon, England, is powered by a 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC engine, and Honda reports the car will hit 60 mph in less than 7 seconds. The exterior styling, in addition to giving the car a very sporty visual appeal, is more than just cosmetic. The chin spoiler, side sill valences, rear under spoiler and larger roof spoiler have been shaped to provide improved aerodynamic performance. Enhanced by 17-inch alloy wheels with low-profile tires, a ride height lowered by 15 mm and the squat, wide-track design of the Civic three-door, the looks leave little doubt as to the high-performance intent of the Type R. Adding to the overall aesthetic is a mesh-effect front grille complete with Type R script, black-plated headlamp sub-reflectors and chrome tail pipes. Complementing the engine is a new six-speed manual gearbox. Closely spaced ratios ensure that engine revs remain within the power band during acceleration. Thanks to the outstanding qualities of the Integra and Accord, Honda's Type R portfolio has come to symbolize exceptional dynamic ability, innovative engineering and an exhilarating driving experience in a unique road car package. The new Civic Type R promises to enhance that reputation still further. A strut brace across the rear of the engine bay increases horizontal rigidity at the front of the car by 17 percent, while at the rear, vertical rigidity is boosted 23 percent through locating an additional strut between the wheel arches. Firmer dampers and springs and alloy wheels shod with 205/45R17 tires connect the car to the road. Larger front disc brakes than the standard Civic three-door, with a firmer pedal action, ensure stopping ability to match the Type R's high-performance potential. The Type R's performance credentials are signaled further by white-faced gauges and a titanium-look shift knob. Additional bits include an embroidered Type R logo at the base of the headrest and red stitching on both the seats and the steering wheel. Door and seat inserts, together with center console trim, are finished in a titanium-like metallic color for an air of added sophistication.
Why should you care?
The Civic Type R is the child of the race-oriented Integra Type R. Since that car was sold in the States on and off over the years, we can only hope to see something like this, too. Don't hold your breath. But you can pray, if you want. —Miles Cook
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