Ok, so I’ve been kinda lusting over the new Integra Type S lately. I miss having a manual, and my wife’s Civic Sport 6spd doesn’t scratch the itch.

The 500 and the Type S aren’t really in the same league of car (argument could be made for the TLX type S), but I’m a big fan of a nice crisp manual. The fact that it’s based on the Civic Type R is a plus. 320hp is plenty, especially in a lighter car, but I’m afraid I’d miss out on the V8 swan song and the Lexus reliability if I swapped them out.

I love the 500, but….a light, tossable 5-door is right in my wheelhouse.

I need to drive one and see if the fuss is worth it. Any of you guys driven the new Integra or Civic Type R?

 

Not necessarily a crazy comparison, you're comparing practical, fun to drive cars. The one thing that disqualifies the Integra for me is the lack of refinement. This goes to the engine, powertrain, and features.

If a manual is a must the Integra is probably as good as it gets for a practical car. If it were me I'd get the IS500 and also a high mile S2000 to scratch that itch.

 

Already have a LE. The type S would replace it. Crazy idea, I know! Could swing both, but that’s dumb financially.

The lack of refinement is kinda fun in my mind.

 

I don't want to go back to FWD.

I'd be looking at the CT4VB or 5VB for a manual. Or, a lot less practical, a Supra. If it had to be top reliability then a Corolla GR since it has AWD.

 

I wouldn't say it is odd--in fact, I was cross shopping these 2 models (and some others) along with the IS500. In the end, I passed on the CTR and Integra Type S because the ridiculous ADM fees put these cars in the same price range ($60k+) as the IS500 and other cars in that category.

 

Good comparison actually. I drove one and liked it very very much but the interior was very Honda. Overall a solid car, firm suspension, amazing gearbox and what killed it for me was a $10k dealer mark-up here in Hawaii.

 

Looks like I’m not the only one who’s thought this! That’s comforting somewhat. The lack of refinement doesn’t necessarily bother me. The real kicker is the fear that I’ll regret getting rid of one of the last V8s. They’re going away soon, but so are manuals….

Something a bit more connected like my old STI is kinda what I’m looking for. The IS is a great car, but it might be too composed…if that makes sense!

 

There's a reason why the Type R was near the top of a lot of car of the year lists. From what I recall, it was faster than the IS500 at Lightning Lap. The Integra is supposed to be a more luxurious version of that.

 

If you can swing both then save the dough and go pick up a $25k 2000-2003 Honda S2000. As fun as it gets for a Honda man. I have a 2001 S2000, it's sublime.

Also, I should mention that you'll basically drive the car for free because it won't lose value.

 

Echo the above comments, I’ve owned more Hondas than anything else, life long fanboy. In high school I had a 95 Integra LS for about a year and worked my *** off in college to buy a 99 Integra GSR. That was my baby. In the years that followed I owned a Prelude SH, my two first NEW cars: RSX Type S and Civic Si. Family cars we even owned an Accord for about 6 years - which was even more reliable than our Camry we owned about the same length of time.

For me, the pricing killed it. It’s insane. I’m not even talking markup, just simple MSRP. I’m sure it’s a fun and fantastic drive that will last forever, and if it was at least $10k lower I would be seeking one out myself, but I just can’t justify $52k+ for that car, before options. I’d rather look at the new Z, Supra, M240i, S3… even the Golf R is a bargain compared to the Acura.

 

Yeah Acura has gone a bit crazy on pricing. We were considering another MDX until I saw that price tag Not worth it at all.

 

It only makes sense to even consider the Integra is if you just absolutely must have a manual transmission. The Type S TLX is the better car and is only a couple grand more. The Integra doesn't appear to be a smart buy IMO.

I bought a used MX-5 to scratch my itch to shift gears. Lacks power but is probably the most balanced car in 4 wheels.

 

Sat in both at the dealer and the ITS has a bigger and more usable interior than the TLX-S. TLX has nicer materials, but not by much. as far as practicality goes i would get the integra.

 

I considered waiting for an Integra Type-S, but with the markups on the CTRs still, I knew the ITS was going to be pricey. At MSRP, I would've seriously considered one, but not when they are marked up to the IS500 price level.

I already have two more cars with manuals, but I wouldn't mind a comfy daily with a manual as well.