Civic’s Pricey Appeal

Civic’s Pricey Appeal

The Honda Civic Type R, especially the EK9 model from 1997, continues to hold a strong allure for car enthusiasts, particularly those who grew up in the 1990s. Recently, one such model exchanged hands for nearly $29,888. To put this in perspective, that’s almost on par with a more modern and slightly used FK8 Civic Type R available right here in the United States. The steep price comes despite its right-hand drive configuration, a factor owing to its Japanese origins.

Specs & Mods

This particular EK9 Civic brings with it a rich array of modifications that enhance its performance credentials. Under the hood, its heart beats with Honda’s legendary B16B engine, a 1.6-liter, naturally aspirated beast delivering 185 horsepower and 118 lb-ft of torque, hitting a redline north of 8,400 rpm. A five-speed manual gearbox channels power to the front wheels, emphasizing the driver-centric experience these Type Rs are famed for.

Among the aftermarket upgrades, enthusiasts will find high-performance additions like a Spoon Sports ECU, a K&N air filter, and a lightweight flywheel. Additionally, Ohlins coilovers, custom control arms, and new camber arms round out the handling enhancements, ensuring the EK9 sticks to the road with precision.

Driving Experience

Getting behind the wheel of this Honda is a special kind of thrill. The Championship White finish and classic Type R red Recaro seats blend nostalgia and performance perfectly. One can imagine tearing down winding roads, the B16B screaming up to redline. It’s a visceral experience, contrasting the relative comfort-driven nature of many modern hot hatches.

Compared to newer models like the FK8, this EK9 is raw and unfiltered. While the FK8 may offer more tech and refinement, the EK9 has a certain charm that’s hard to replicate. It’s lighter and feels more connected to the road, something many car enthusiasts yearn for in today’s tech-saturated offerings.

Inside the Cabin

The cabin of this Civic Type R repeats the race-ready mantra Honda’s Type R line is known for. The bright red interior, complete with Recaro bucket seats and a Momo steering wheel, adds to the track car vibe. Despite its 116,258 miles, the interior remains well-preserved, suggesting a life that’s been both spirited and well cared for.

Final Thoughts

While dropping close to $30,000 on a right-hand-drive, import-tinted EK9 might seem extreme, it represents more than just performance. It embodies a slice of automotive history, a nostalgic throwback to when Japanese performance cars carved their niche in the hearts of automotive fans worldwide. That said, with a budget of $30,000, potential buyers are faced with a decision between classic charm and modern refinement.