Honda Integra Type R DC2 vs DC5 — The Ultimate JDM Showdown 🏁
By Paquito Jr Conde | August 13, 2025
If you’re a car enthusiast hunting for a legendary front-wheel-drive sports car, the Honda Integra Type R is a name you already know. But here’s the question: DC2 or DC5? In this guide, we break down the specs, pros & cons, and real-world differences so you can choose the perfect Integra for your style — whether you love raw, analog driving or a refined, modern ride. 🚗💨
Honda Integra Type R: DC2 vs DC5 — Full Guide 🔥
Let’s keep this simple and super helpful. Below is a clean, human-friendly comparison of the legendary DC2 and the more modern DC5. You’ll get specs, pros & cons, and a straight answer on why the DC5 might be the smarter buy for you. 🚗💨
🔹 Honda Integra Type R DC2 (1995–2001)
Raw, lightweight, and laser-focused on driving feel — often called the gold standard for front-wheel-drive fun. 🏁
Key Specs (JDM)
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.8L DOHC VTEC B18C |
| Power | 197 hp @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 178 Nm @ 6,200 rpm |
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
| Weight | ~1,080 kg |
| Drivetrain | FWD |
| 0–100 km/h | ~6.5 s |
| Top Speed | ~230 km/h |
| Suspension | Double wishbone (front & rear) |
| Brakes | 282 mm vented front, 262 mm solid rear |
Pros ✅
- Legendary handling — razor-sharp steering & balance 🪄
- Pure, analog driving feel — minimal electronics, big smiles
- Lightweight agility — instant feedback on twisty roads
- Double wishbone grip — excellent cornering stability
- High-rev B18C VTEC — a Honda icon 🔧
- Track-ready DNA — proven in motorsport
Cons ❌
- Aging chassis — most examples now need love/restoration 🧰
- Basic comforts — firm ride, noisy cabin
- Hard to find stock, clean units
- Lower refinement — rattles and thin insulation
Advantages (DC2)
- Best-in-class steering feel and engagement
- More lightweight, more connected to the road
- Icon status — highly collectible 🏆
Disadvantages (DC2)
- Less comfy for daily use
- OEM parts can be tough to source
- Older safety compared to newer models
🔹 Honda Integra Type R DC5 (2001–2006)
Brings the Integra into the modern era: faster, more refined, and easier to live with — though a bit less raw. ✨
Key Specs (JDM)
| Spec | Value |
|---|---|
| Engine | 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC K20A |
| Power | 217 hp @ 8,000 rpm |
| Torque | 206 Nm @ 7,000 rpm |
| Transmission | 6-speed manual |
| Weight | ~1,190 kg |
| Drivetrain | FWD with helical LSD |
| 0–100 km/h | ~6.2 s |
| Top Speed | ~240 km/h |
| Suspension | MacPherson strut (front), double wishbone (rear) |
| Brakes | 300 mm vented front, 260 mm solid rear |
Pros ✅
- More power & torque than DC2 ⚡
- Sweet 6-speed — tighter ratios, calmer cruising
- Newer safety — airbags, stiffer shell
- More comfortable — better seats, quieter cabin 🛋️
- K20A is highly tunable — massive aftermarket
- Parts availability is better
Cons ❌
- Heavier — a touch less flickable than DC2
- Less steering feel due to strut front
- Clean examples can be pricey 💸
- More refined = a bit less “raw” character
Advantages (DC5)
- Excellent daily — comfort + speed combo
- Great reliability for long trips and regular use
- Easier to find clean, lower-mileage units
- Huge tuning headroom (K-series swaps are famous) 🔩
Disadvantages (DC5)
- Less “connected” feel than DC2 on tight roads
- Heavier — can be marginally slower on technical tracks
- Values rising quickly
💡 Why Buy a DC5 Over a DC2?
- You want a balance of performance and comfort — it’s quick but livable daily.
- You value newer safety & conveniences (airbags, better crash structure, efficient A/C).
- You want more power and torque out of the box.
- You plan to tune — the K20A has massive upgrade potential.
- You prefer a newer chassis with less restoration needed.
✅ Verdict (Simple & Honest)
DC2 = Raw, lightweight, legendary handling — perfect for purists who chase feel. 🥇
DC5 = Faster, more refined, more comfortable — best for all-rounders and tuners. 🔧🏎️