Rare Honda Integra Type R Surfaces in UK Auction: The 'Real' One You Couldn't Buy in America

A remarkably preserved, low-mileage 1999 Honda Integra Type R is currently up for auction in the UK, sparking interest among enthusiasts worldwide. This particular model, finished in Starlight Black, boasts an incredibly low mileage of under 13,000 miles and represents a genuine UK-delivered example, distinguishing it from its North American Acura counterpart.

Under 13,000 miles

That ultra-low odometer reading is a major reason this UK-spec Integra Type R is drawing global attention.

Key Takeaways

• A rare, low-mileage 1999 Honda Integra Type R is being auctioned in the UK.
• This UK-spec model features a Honda badge, unlike the US-market Acura Integra Type R.
• It is eligible for US importation under the 25-year rule.
• The car retains its original Recaro seats and other desirable UK-specific features.

A True Driver's Machine

For purists, this is the Honda-badged Type R experience that the US market never officially received, combining European-spec identity with the famous DC2 chassis balance.

Honda Integra Type R vs. Acura Version

Common Belief

The Acura Integra Type R sold in the United States is the definitive version of the car.

Reality

Many enthusiasts see the Honda-badged UK and other non-US Type R models as the more authentic expression, even though this UK-spec car makes 187 horsepower from its 1.8-liter B18C6 VTEC engine.

While the Acura Integra Type R was a celebrated performance car in the United States, the "real" Type R, according to many purists, wore a Honda badge and was never officially sold in the US. This particular 1999 DC2 Integra Type R, originally supplied by Hendy Lennox Honda in Exeter, is a right-hand drive model that offers a glimpse into the European specification. Under the hood lies Honda's renowned 1.8-liter B18C6 VTEC engine, producing 187 horsepower (190 PS). While slightly less powerful than its JDM and US-spec siblings, the Integra Type R's legendary handling and driving dynamics are its true selling points.

Distinctive UK-Spec Features

This car's appeal comes from a mix of visual details, driver-focused hardware, and recent upkeep that make it especially desirable to collectors.

Notable UK-Spec Details at a Glance

Feature	UK-spec example	Why it matters
Front-end identity	Quad headlights and Honda badge	Visually separates it from the US-market Acura version
Interior	Original Recaro bucket seats	Highly sought-after and unusually well-preserved
Driver controls	Yellow gauge needles and three-spoke Momo wheel	Adds to the period-correct Type R feel
Recent maintenance	Timing belt, valve adjustment, brakes, tires, and fluids	Suggests the car has been properly prepared for continued use

This example stands out with its UK-specific features, including quad headlights and, crucially, the Honda badge on the front. Inside, the cabin is adorned with highly sought-after Recaro bucket seats, which appear to be in exceptional condition given the car's age. Other desirable touches include yellow gauge needles and a three-spoke Momo steering wheel, often preferred over the four-spoke wheel found in US models. The car has recently undergone significant maintenance, including a timing belt service, valve adjustment, and replacement of brakes, tires, and fluids.

US Import Potential

The auction's reach extends beyond Britain because this survivor now clears an important legal threshold for American buyers.

Adding to its global appeal, this 1999 Integra Type R is now eligible for legal importation into the United States under the 25-year exemption rule. This opens up opportunities for American collectors and enthusiasts who have long desired a Honda-badged Integra Type R. While the underside shows some signs of age and may benefit from a professional cleaning and rustproofing, the overall condition of this low-mileage survivor is impressive.