The first generation Honda Civic Type-R (EK9) is a high-performance vehicle that was built by Honda in 1997. Gearheads know that this automobile is popular with the street racing community and was featured in various movies and TV series.
But this is hardly surprising if we consider that the Honda brand is already a titan beloved by the automotive industry, which appeared in some of the coolest action Blockbusters and car speeding and flipping movies, including “The Fast and the Furious” franchise and Pulp Function.
As for the first generation of the Civic Type-R, this mighty Japanese export has taken the world by storm, although, American fans couldn’t get one of these vehicles in their home country because of restrictive regulations.
Nevertheless, this legendary car based on the three-door hatchback Civic has built a strong fan base in the United States thanks to its presence in cult movies, TV series, and automotive channels. Given its success with the restomod community, here is why the Gen-1 Honda Civic Type-R is a perfect project car.
Affordable Price And Thriving Aftermarket
Currently, Honda fans can find on the digital platform, parking-cars, a Honda Civic Type-R (EK9) with 71,457 miles on board that is being sold for $10,283. On the same website, there are several others EK9s in far better conditions retailing for $15,800 and $19,332. While the prices are reasonable, interested buyers should consider that these vehicles are sold in the European Union; thus, freight and import taxes would have to be added to the final cost.
But the investment is totally worth it if we consider that in 2020, an EK9 Honda Civic Type-R with 1,584 miles on its odometer was auctioned in Tokyo for an impressive $73,000. Restomod fanatics have already caught the EK9 restyling trend, so they are enthusiastically revamping the Civic Type R. For instance, back in 2020, the biggest attraction at the Honda Access’ 2020 Tokyo Auto Salon stand was a 1999 Civic Type R EK9 which was seriously revamped and introduced to the public as Honda Civic Cyber Night Japan Cruiser.
EK9 Civic Type-R Is A High- Performance Vehicle
This three-door hatchback was in its heyday a powerful little beast that could accelerate from 0 to 60 miles per hour in 6.7 seconds and reach the top speed of 140 miles per hour. Further, the EK9 Honda Civic Type-R only required 15.3 seconds to finish a quarter mile.
Under the hood, the EK9 Honda Civic Type-R had the famous hand-ported B16B engine that was capable of generating 182 horsepower and 118 pound-feet of torque. This is pretty impressive if we consider that this was a 1.6-liter engine. Having said that, the 1.6-liter B16 VTEC engine used in the Honda Civic EK4's VTi-R hatch was upgraded for EK9's powertrain.
Gen-1 Honda Civic Type-R Has High Reliability
Reliability is a critical issue for potential buyers when purchasing a secondhand car. And it appears that petrolheads who enjoy updating used vehicles have the same interests. Finding automobiles with good reliability ratings, such as the EK9, is therefore extremely advantageous. During its prime, the EK9 Honda Civic Type-R was distinguished for its street-racing performance and dependability.
And customers were still raving about the reliability of the car, ten years after it was released. On an online forum called EK.9 org, gearheads concurred that the EK9 is a great choice for drivers interested in snagging a reliable used vehicle, with one user saying “My B16B has 100000 km on the clock running heavy mods and is still the same as new.”
Easy To Source Parts For Gen-1 Civic Type-R
Finding the missing parts for restomod projects is one of the biggest hassles. There are various cars and trucks out there that could be easily restored, upgraded, and revitalized, but mechanics are unable to locate the appropriate parts for them.
Fortunately, this is not EK9's problem. Since the Honda Civic Type-R is still being manufactured, it is easier to source parts for the EK9. It also helps that the EK9 has a platform that is incredibly adaptable, so missing and defective parts can be easily replaced.
Honda Civic Type-R First-Gen Has Cool Looks
Car lovers and gearheads choose to avoid certain automobiles because their exterior is antiquated and uninteresting; thus reworking the exterior would require significant time and financial input. But that is not the case with the EK9 Honda Civic Type-R. This high-performance hatchback has a classic design that is still current today.
Meanwhile, the dynamic appearance can be further emphasized with the third-party body kits found currently on the market. Nengun, for instance, provides a variety of body parts that are sourced straight from Japan. Additionally, sellers on global e-commerce platforms like AliExpress, Amazon, and eBay also offer less expensive body kits and parts.
Sources: Honda, Japanesenostalgiccar