Honda Integra Type R DC5

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Looking for a classic with a difference – then why not consider a gem from Japan suggests Chris Rees?

Japanese cars, for so long neglected by the classic car movement, now have a huge following. That charge has been led by the hard-to-ignore Mazda MX-5, which single-handedly reinvented the two-seater roadster. But so pervasive is the MX-5’s influence that Mr Editor has instructed me not to talk about it. Which is good because there are so many fantastic Japanese classics out there.

From 1970’s retro rides to 21st century performance icons, Japan’s rich car culture has produced an impressive spread of machinery to choose from. The fact that so many of these are ‘under the radar’ in the car market means there are some bargains out there. But our prediction is that values will soon rise for many Japs. Why? Because they’re undervalued and because owners love the fact that they’re more reliable than other classics. So here’s our choice of cars that you can buy at bargain prices, enjoy and, very probably, see increase in value over time. There, I didn’t mention the MX-5 at all. Er, doh!

HONDA INTEGRA TYPE R DC5

PRODUCTION: 2001-2006
VALUES: £6000-£12,000

It’s hard to overstate just what a fantastic car the Integra Type R is. While the 1995- 2001 Integra DC2 remains arguably the best-handling, front-wheel drive car of all time, its values are now rising fast. So we’re plumping for the later DC5, which is a better all-round car and simply fantastic value for money. Launched in Japan in 2001, but never sold in the UK, it was developed by ex-Formula 1 engineers. Its K20A 2.0-litre fourcylinder engine kicks out 220bhp and has the usual Honda VTEC magic at high revs.

Exploiting that power perfectly is a close-ratio six-speed manual gearbox and limited-slip diff. The three-door body shape (in brilliant white) is very appealing and rather less in-your-face than the DC2 (although it still has a deep front spoiler, side skirts and rear spoiler). It’s pleasant inside, too, with Recaro front seats, a Momo leather wheel and a lot of aluminium trim. DC5s are cracking value right now but it’s essential to find an original, unmodified example – and one with low mileage is set to appreciate dramatically, we reckon.