The Amelia Island auctions concluded recently, showcasing a wide array of automobiles and motorcycles. Among the notable sales, a surprising standout emerged, overshadowing even some of the most prestigious marques: a record-breaking 1997 Acura Integra Type R, sold by Broad Arrow for an astounding $151,200. While a 1962 Ferrari 250 GT California SWB Spider set an overall Amelia Island auction record, and a pre-merger AMG Mercedes-Benz SL 500 6.0 “SL-Hammer” was considered a steal, it was the Integra Type R that truly captured the attention and sparked conversations about the evolving collector car market.
The presence of a front-wheel-drive Honda product at a high-profile catalog auction initially raised eyebrows. During the auction preview, many onlookers questioned how an Acura Integra, even a Type R, could command such attention and potentially a high price in this arena. However, this record sale decisively answers that question, signaling a significant shift in the collector car landscape and the growing appreciation for Japanese performance vehicles.
To understand the significance of this sale, it’s crucial to recognize that the Integra Type R was never just another front-wheel-drive car. Even in its base form, the Integra was a dynamically engaging vehicle. But with the introduction of the Type R in 1997, Acura elevated it to an entirely new level. The Type R received extensive chassis reinforcement and a meticulously tuned, upgraded suspension system. The true masterpiece, however, lay under the hood: the legendary B18C engine. This high-revving 1.8-liter four-cylinder engine produces 195 horsepower and is renowned for its exhilarating performance, eagerly encouraging drivers to push it to its 8400-rpm redline. Ask any enthusiast of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars who has experienced the DC2 Integra Type R, and they will likely affirm its status as the best front-wheel-drive car ever created.
But does this legendary status justify a $151,200 sale price? This particular example, with only 6200 miles, is practically new for a Honda and represents a rare find in such pristine, low-mileage condition outside of a museum setting. Yet, the price tag remains substantial. For similar money, one could acquire iconic Japanese performance cars like a Nissan Skyline GT-R (R32 or R33), a first-generation Acura NSX, or even a well-preserved twin-turbo Toyota Supra Mk IV. The question then becomes: does the Integra Type R genuinely belong in the company of these Japanese automotive titans? This record sale provides compelling evidence that the answer is a resounding yes.
The impact of this sale extends beyond just the Integra Type R itself. These Japanese sports car heroes, including the Integra Type R, have traditionally achieved strong results at online auctions, particularly on platforms like Bring a Trailer. However, they have sometimes struggled to reach the same price levels at traditional in-person auctions. Considering the often unpredictable nature of live auctions for modern Japanese cars, this Integra Type R sale at Amelia Island strongly suggests a shift in perception. It indicates that Japanese collector cars are gaining mainstream acceptance and recognition within established collector car circles. This is further emphasized by the fact that the previous record for an Integra Type R, $117,000 on Bring a Trailer, was set before the peak of the recent market surge in January 2022.
Looking ahead, the record-setting auction result suggests considerable potential for further value appreciation for the Integra Type R. It would not be surprising to see more owners bringing their Integra Type Rs to market, encouraged by this landmark sale. It’s important to maintain perspective: exceptional cars, especially in terms of condition and originality, will always command exceptional prices, while others may lag behind. Nevertheless, the Acura Integra Type R has undeniably reached a new echelon in the collector car world, solidifying its place as a sought-after and valuable modern classic. The Integra Type R’s moment has arrived, and its significance in the collector car market is only set to grow.
