It’s been over two decades since we last saw the Acura Integra in the marketplace, but it’s back for the 2023 model year. It shares a lot with the current-model Honda Civic – specifically the Si trim – and carries a price tag within the low $30,000 range. That made us wonder, considering the Integra’s affordable buy-in price and luxury features, could it be a better buy over a used Civic Type R?

Is the 2023 Acura Integra a smarter buy over a used Honda Civic Type R?

Value-wise, the 2023 Acura Integra looks to be a smarter purchase over a Honda Civic Type R. According to Acura, the Integra will carry a starting price of $30,800 and up to $35,800 for the top trim when it shows up in dealerships soon. In contrast, most used 2017 to 2021 Honda Civic Type R models are selling for anywhere between $33,000 and $50,000 according to a nationwide search on Autotrader.

Keep in mind that the Civic Type R models priced at the lower end of the spectrum are at least four years old and have plenty of miles racked up on the odometer. The new Integra would pose a better value because it’s new, has the newer tech and luxury features, and presents a better value proposition despite the fact that it’s not as much of a performer.

What does the 2023 Integra have that the Civic Type R does not?

Compared to the Civic Type R, some of the key features included in the 2023 Acura Integra are a well-appointed interior and some tech-savvy features. Some standout amenities include a larger 9.0-inch infotainment screen, a 10.2-inch all-digital instrument panel, wireless Apple Carplay/Android Auto, a wireless phone charger, heated seats, and a 16-speaker ELS premium sound system. Sure, the Integra is meant to be an entry-level luxury car, but that’s what makes it such a good option over Honda’s fire-breathing pocket rocket.

Speaking of breathing fire, let’s not forget that the Civic Type R’s main draw is its turbocharged 2.0-liter engine that churns out 306 hp and 295 lb-ft of torque. It also has some tech features like Apple Carplay/Android Auto compatibility, Bluetooth, navigation, and a decent sound system. On the other hand, the Integra is powered by a turbocharged 1.5-liter engine that pounds out 200 hp and 192 lb-ft of torque, the same engine found in the current Civic Si.

That is to say that if power is what you seek, then the Civic Type R is the one to get. But if you would rather have daily driving comfort, then the all-new Integra is the way to go.

What makes the Honda Civic Type R a better buy than the Acura Integra?

Aside from its potent powerplant, what makes the Honda Civic Type R a better buy than the Integra is its collectible value. The reason that the used hatchback commands a higher price than its original MSRP is that it’s in high demand. The “Type R” moniker has a special place in the hearts of Honda and Acura fans, so dealers and private sellers are able to command a premium for it. And buyers will have a car that will likely appreciate in value later on.

That being said, if Acura dealers start marking up the 2023 Integra’s MSRP by $10,000 to $15,000 – as is a common practice nowadays – then the new car won’t be worth it. But barring any price hikes, the all-new Integra is dollar-for-dollar and feature-for-feature a far better buy than a used Honda Civic Type R.