Used Honda Integra Coupe 1998 - 2001 review

It's noisy, it's expensive to run and there's only a very basic provision of equipment, so why do we award four stars to the Honda Integra? Well, once you've driven one, you'll understand.

If you're after an affordable racecar for the road, and you're prepared to make a few sacrifices in comfort to get it, then look no further.

There's seemingly endless grip and traction, which is especially impressive from a front-wheel drive car, and the precision and balance of the handling give any driver the confidence to really push on. The deft touch of the steering and the slick action of the gearshift only add to their enjoyment of the experience.

The cabin is that of a stripped out, uncompromising road racer, so there's none of the creature comforts and extravagant interior design of less serious sports cars. Officially, it's a four-seater, but don't bank on being able to carry more than one friend at a time.

Considering the talent that you'll be getting for your money, it's surprisingly affordable. The Integra cost just over £20,000 new, and even for a 2001 example, the youngest you'll find, you'll be paying well under half that at your local dealer.

Running costs won't be cheap, though. The Integra's manic engine may be a lot of fun, but even a sensibly driven car will only provide an average fuel consumption of 32.1mpg. If you can't resist the temptation to drive it harder, that figure will fall dramatically.

The Integra is very expensive to insure, too. An insurance grouping of 18 will mean that you'll part with a massive wedge of cash each year to cover your car. Servicing costs have the potential to hurt your wallet even more. The Integra's hard-working mechanicals need a lot of TLC, and routine servicing needs to be carried out every 6000 miles.

If you drive it hard, be prepared to get through a lot of tyres and brake pads.

There's only one version to choose - the Type R (R stands for Racing, if you hadn't already guessed). But, when it's this good, another version would be pointless.

The main reason behind the Integra's talent is a frantic 1.8-litre engine developing 187bhp. But, the sheer power on its own is only reasonably impressive - 0-62mph is dealt with in 6.7sec and it has a top speed of 145mph.

Up to 6000rpm, it feels only moderately quick. Beyond that, the VTEC variable valve timing goes to work, and all hell breaks loose. Maximum power is delivered at a heady 8000rpm, making for a dramatic, raw and exhilarating driving experience.

You pay the price in noise. There's next to no soundproofing, so there's nothing to protect you from the engine's war cry. Still, that's not the point of the Type R, though - if you care about refinement, you won't consider one.

Kit provision is basic, but you'll get alloys, electric windows and a CD player.