The Honda Civic Type R (EK) '97 stands as one of the most iconic hot hatches of the 1990s, launching Honda's legendary Type R performance badge for the Civic family. Introduced exclusively to the Japanese market in 1997, the EK9-generation Civic Type R was a significant milestone in Honda's pursuit of affordable high-performance cars. It was based on the sixth generation Civic hatchback and engineered with a singular focus on handling, lightweight construction, and a thrilling driving experience.
Powered by the revered B16B 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC engine, the Civic Type R (EK) produced 185 horsepower at a stunning 8,200 RPM—an impressive feat for a naturally aspirated, small-displacement engine. This engine had a redline approaching race-inspired territory and featured bespoke internals, setting it apart from other Civic variants. Honda engineers shaved weight wherever possible by employing thinner glass, a seam-welded chassis, and minimal sound deadening, giving the EK9 a curb weight of just over 1,050 kg (around 2,300 lbs). The car was also equipped with a close-ratio five-speed manual transmission, a helical limited-slip differential, and upgraded suspension components for razor-sharp handling.
On the racing circuit and touge mountain passes alike, the Honda Civic Type R (EK) quickly earned a reputation for its agile, communicative chassis and precise steering feel. While the EK9 was not officially sold outside Japan, it became a cult favorite among enthusiasts worldwide, later imported as a prized collector's item. Its success in club and grassroots racing cemented its status as a driver's car par excellence, inspiring generations of Civic Type R models to come and influencing Honda's engineering philosophy.
Even decades after its debut, the Honda Civic Type R (EK) '97 remains exceptionally popular with tuners and car aficionados for its modifiability, reliability, and iconic VTEC performance. Its combination of pure driving enjoyment, practicality, and track-ready DNA assures its place among the greatest front-wheel-drive performance cars in automotive history. Today, the EK9 is a sought-after classic, celebrated for embodying the golden era of Japanese performance engineering.
