The Acura Integra Type S and Honda Civic Type R share a platform and 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, but the Acura positions itself as a more luxurious interpretation. Car and Driver notes that the Type S inherits the Civic’s 315 horsepower engine but adds only 5 hp, while weighing about 29 pounds more due to additional sound deadening and luxury features【662885459817258†L87-L98】. Its interior features red leather, heated front seats, and an ELS sound system, but the shorter roofline reduces rear headroom compared with the Civic Type R【662885459817258†L87-L98】.
In performance testing, the Civic Type R proves the quicker and more agile car. Car and Driver’s instrumented tests reported that the Integra Type S runs from 0–60 mph in 5.1 seconds and covers the quarter‑mile in 13.7 seconds, while the lighter Civic Type R does both in less time【662885459817258†L112-L116】. Both cars share the same six‑speed manual transmission and limited‑slip differential, but the Type R rides on slightly stiffer suspension tuning and lighter wheels for sharper handling.
Price is another significant differentiator. The 2023 Integra Type S starts around $51,995 in the U.S., roughly $7,000 more than the $44,890 Civic Type R【662885459817258†L142-L146】. Car and Driver concludes that although the Type S offers nicer materials and extra features, the marginal power increase and slower performance do not justify the premium over the Civic Type R【662885459817258†L142-L146】. Enthusiasts seeking the sharpest hot hatch will prefer the Civic, while those prioritizing comfort and daily‑driving refinement may be tempted by the Acura.