Start August 22, 1997
Main Features
- ABS standard throughout the series.
- Tinted glass (rear window, rear side windows) on 3 door models, and UV-cut glass (all round) on 4 door models as standard equipment.
- Navigation system with newly added interconnection to the VICS road information system.
- New 14-inch wheels on 3 door VTi and 4 door Vi models.
- New wheel cap design on 3 door VTi, 4 door Vi and RTi models.
- 4 door Mi model with new rear seat including rear seat pillow and armrest.
Civic Type R
Following in the steps of the NSX Type R and the Integra Type R, the popular and sporty Civic model served as the base for the development of the third member of the Type R family, the Civic Type R. As with the previous two models, the Civic Type R was again developed in the spirit of pure racing to provide the customer with the utmost in driving pleasure.
Main features of the Civic Type R
- Dynamic performance
A new high performance 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC engine boasting a maximum output of 185ps at 8,200 rpm (116ps/liter) was specifically developed for this Type R. Response, high engine speeds and superior acceleration were the main development themes of this new engine. - new valvetrain allowing higher engine speeds.
- reduced engine friction.
- improved breathing.
- increased compression ratio.
- increased body rigidity and reduced overall weight.
- Handling
Further stressing the natural characteristics of the Civic, a lower center of gravity and increased rolling resistance were combined to provide both superior maneuverability and stability. - reduced body height for a lowered center of gravity.
- retuned suspension setting.
- torque-sensitive helical limited slip differential.
- over-sized disk brake rotors.
- increased body rigidity (performance rod etc.).
- sports tuned ABS system.
- Type R-specific Potenza RE010 performance tires.
- revised pedal layout for easier heel and toe.
- Feeling
Spartan yet tasteful exterior and interior design. - aero-dynamic parts (front/rear underskirts and rear spoiler).
- Type R-specific 5-lug, 7-spoke alloy wheels.
- red reclinable Recaro bucket seats with coordinated interior design.
- sporty 368mm MOMO steering wheel with built-in SRS airbag (350mm steering wheel for option without SRS airbag).
- short stroke titanium shift knob.
- carbon-style meter panel.
- low frequency exhaust note.
