Integra Si Receives Type-R Face from United States
Built by a monk in Japan, this Integra Si transformation includes Type R engine swap & a coat of Formula Red paint.
When most build an Integra, they usually want some of that JDM magic in the mix. Maybe it’s the face of the Type-R. Maybe it’s a few Honda badges to replace the Acura set. The price may be a bit tough on the wallet, but it doesn’t matter when it comes to mixing Japan into the build.
Speaking of Japan, one monk decided to do something a little different. Super Street has the story of Masanari Matsuura, who looked to the United States for his Integra Si build.
Matsuura’s journey to the build began 12 years earlier, when he first fell for Honda with a DB8 Integra sedan. He attempted to build it into something cool, but the lack of a sunroof led him to a Mitsubishi Evolution X. An odd detour, but it did lead him back to a 1994 Integra Si, one he’d remake American-style.
While we desire the elongated headlamps from the 1995-2001 JDM Integras, Matsuura swapped his out for the “bug eye” headlights used for the ’93-’94 cars at home, and for all Acura Integras in the U.S. between 1993 and 2001. The right high beam was omitted for a custom air intake.
Behind the headlights, the old four-banger was punted for a B18C from a Type R. The blacked-out motor pops against the fresh coat of Formula Red paint, used on the S2000.
Speaking of the S2000, Matsuura swapped out the original dash for one from Honda’s baddest roadster. Aside from the pair of racing buckets and red belts, the interior is sparse. No back seat, no carpeting, no interior trim beyond the door panels. A roll bar protects the driver and lucky passenger, the chrome braces out back stiffen the works.
Matsuura isn’t alone in his USDM-inspired Integra build. Just as U.S. Honda fans look to Japan, Japanese Honda fans look to the U.S. for their builds. The best part of all this may be the fact the cultural exchange means parts are easier to come by. The prices are still a bit much, though.
Photos: Super Sport
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