Monday 11th January 2016

Honda Civic Type R: PH Carpool

Honda fan Kris needed a more practical replacement for his Integra; what else was he going to get?

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Name: Kris McCloy
Car: 2008 Honda Civic Type R
Owned since: June 2015
Previously owned: 1997 Honda Civic 1.4, 2001 VW Lupo, 1999 Honda Civic 1.5, 1999 Honda Civic EK4 SiR 1.6 DOHC, 1999 Honda Integra Type R DC2 (import)

Looks key to the appeal for Kris

Why I bought it:
"It was no longer viable for me to keep the DC2; I just couldn't keep it as a second car any longer. So I decided I wanted a 'one size fits all' car. I have always liked the space age looks both inside and outside of the FN2, plus it has 200hp and I prefer high revving power units."

What I wish I'd known:
"I wish I would have picked up on a lot of niggling problems associated with this model. Upon collection, my car suffered from the aggravating clutch pedal click and subframe clicking when turning on full lock. I'm glad I opted for the six-month warranty too as the digital speedo soon decided it wanted to display 888mph. Other than that, I think I've found a good one after looking at six in total."

Warranty useful when the speedo went kaput

Things I love:
"As mentioned I think these cars look great. The interior is a very nice place both visually and ergonomically. The six-speed gearbox is direct and precise with nicely matched ratios. It's relatively practical, feels mechanically robust and it still has the potential to put a smile on my face when I want it to. Oh, and the engine sound!"

Things I hate:
"The rear visibility is poor at best. The suspension can be very easily upset even on average roads which takes its toll on some of the interior components. I despise interior rattles. The tyre shoulder shredding MacPherson front suspension and the height you sit within the cabin is far too high!"

Costs:
"Insurance actually cost more than my imported DC2 which shocked me. Tax is also more expensive at £290 per year and I am already well acquainted with Honda parts pricing. The new speedo unit cost £650. Thank you warranty. It's due the 75K service at a cost of around £400-£500 after I made a few enquiries."

Amongst friends!

Where I've been:
"I have ventured to Hartside Pass with a group of friends for a breakfast meet. I was there with a friend's Integra Type R engined Civic and another friend's Integra DC5. The lardy FN2 wasn't too far off though! The trip did highlight the need for a limited-slip differential however..."

What next?
"I feel the car would benefit from additional front negative camber, uprated brake pads and some stickier tyres. I do enjoy this car as a daily driver and odd B-road blast. But for 2016 I am toying with the idea of an early EP3 Civic to sit alongside the FN2 in order to get back on track. There's a Recaro Pole position collecting cobwebs in my garage."

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Search Honda Civic Type Rs in the PH Classifieds

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Want to share your car with PHers on Carpool? Email us at [e-mail]!

[Vee12V]

"The suspension can be very easily upset even on average roads which takes its toll on some of the interior components. I despise interior rattles. The tyre shoulder shredding MacPherson front suspension and the height you sit within the cabin is far too high!"

Quite serious negatives if you ask me.