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1998 Honda Civic Type R (EK9): The Lightweight VTEC Legend

When Honda introduced the Civic Type R (EK9) in 1997, it was more than just a faster Civic—it was a spiritual successor to the Integra Type R and a showcase of how much performance could be extracted from a naturally aspirated 1.6-liter engine. The 1998 model, the final production year of the EK9, represents the peak of Honda’s golden era of lightweight, high-revving performance.

A Pure JDM Machine

Exclusively sold in Japan, the EK9 Civic Type R never officially made it to U.S. or European showrooms, making it a highly sought-after import today. It was the first Civic to wear the Type R badge, and it set the blueprint for what a hot hatch could be: lightweight, responsive, and endlessly fun to drive.

1998 Honda Civic Type R (EK9) – Pure JDM Performance


The 1998 Honda Civic Type R (EK9) stands as a true icon in the golden era of JDM performance. Introduced exclusively to the Japanese domestic market, the EK9 was the first Civic to wear the coveted Type R badge. Built with a no-compromise focus on lightweight agility, razor-sharp handling, and high-revving performance, it quickly became a legend among street racers and track-day purists.


Under the hood sits the mighty B16B 1.6L DOHC VTEC engine — a naturally aspirated screamer producing 185 PS (182 hp) at 8,200 rpm and 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) of torque at 7,500 rpm. Thanks to a high compression ratio (10.8:1), forged internals, and an 8,600 rpm redline, the B16B delivers thrilling performance and one of the best VTEC kicks of the 90s.


Engine and Performance

At the heart of the EK9 is the B16B engine, a hand-built 1.6L DOHC VTEC motor derived from the Integra Type R’s B18C. Despite its small displacement, it revs to 8,400 rpm and produces an incredible 185 hp—over 115 hp per liter, making it one of the most power-dense engines of its time.

1998 Honda Civic Type R EK9 Specs:

  1. Engine: 1.6L B16B DOHC VTEC I4
  2. Horsepower: 185 hp @ 8,200 rpm
  3. Torque: 118 lb-ft @ 7,500 rpm
  4. Redline: 8,400 rpm
  5. Transmission: Close-ratio 5-speed manual with LSD
  6. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
  7. 0–100 km/h (0–62 mph): ~6.7 seconds
  8. Curb weight: ~1,050 kg (2,315 lbs)

The close-ratio gearbox and helical limited-slip differential (LSD) allowed the EK9 to maintain optimal grip and acceleration, especially in tight corners or during spirited track driving.


Legacy and Collector Value


Today, the 1998 EK9 Civic Type R is considered a JDM icon and a collector’s dream. With limited production numbers and increasing importation into the U.S. (now 25-year legal), values have been steadily climbing.

Why It’s Highly Valued:

  1. Final year of EK9 production
  2. Raw, analog performance
  3. Limited production (~16,000 units total)
  4. Legendary B16B engine
  5. Eligible for U.S. import under the 25-year rule

Prices for clean EK9s can range from $25,000 to over $40,000 USD depending on mileage, originality, and condition.

Tuning Potential

Although the EK9 is nearly perfect out of the box, it’s also a favorite among tuners:

  1. Bolt-ons: Intake, headers, and exhaust can push power over 200 hp
  2. ECU tuning: VTEC crossover and fuel mapping adjustments
  3. Suspension upgrades: Coilovers and camber kits for track precision
  4. JDM styling mods: Spoon Sports, Mugen, and FEEL’S upgrades popular among purists


Key Specs:


  1. Engine: B16B 1.6L DOHC VTEC I4
  2. Power: 185 PS (182 hp) @ 8,200 rpm
  3. Torque: 160 Nm (118 lb-ft) @ 7,500 rpm
  4. Transmission: 5-speed manual with helical LSD
  5. Drivetrain: Front-wheel drive
  6. Curb Weight: ~1,090 kg (2,403 lbs)
  7. Redline: 8,600 rpm
  8. 0-100 km/h (0-62 mph): ~6.7 seconds
  9. Chassis Code: EK9
  10. Production Years: 1997–2000 (JDM only)

What sets the EK9 apart from regular Civics isn’t just the engine — it’s the full Type R treatment: a seam-welded chassis for rigidity, stiffer suspension, close-ratio gearbox, Recaro bucket seats, MOMO steering wheel, and lightweight 15” alloy wheels wrapped in sticky rubber.

The 1998 Civic Type R wasn’t just a Civic — it was Honda’s street-legal race car, tuned by enthusiasts for enthusiasts. Today, it’s a highly sought-after collector’s car and a true JDM legend.

Final Thoughts: The Civic That Changed the Game


The 1998 Honda Civic Type R (EK9) is more than a Civic—it’s a milestone in performance engineering. It proves that power isn’t everything; balance, feedback, and driver connection are what truly matter. Whether you’re chasing lap times or JDM authenticity, the EK9 delivers like few other hatchbacks ever have.

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