Often, when an automaker creates an enthusiast’s special, it gets an afterthought treatment without much fanfare. Acura, however, has not only reintroduced the legendary Integra nameplate and given it the Type S treatment, but now, it’s going racing. In 2024, the Acura Integra Type S heads to Stephane Ratel Organisation’s Touring Car America division, replacing the Honda Civic Type R.

The Acura Integra Type S DE5 is no standard sports car

Developed and assembled at Honda Performance Development’s Ohio facility, the 2024 Acura Integra Type S DE5 is anything but ordinary. The 2.0-liter K20C8 turbocharged four-cylinder engine makes 360 horsepower versus just 320 in the roadgoing car. Torque rates at 340 lb.ft. versus the 310 lb. ft. you can get from the dealership. Then, rather than a six-speed manual with clutch, that power goes through a six-speed sequential transmission with paddle shifters.

The engine is augmented by an improved radiator, intercooler, and a Honda-developed Borla exhaust system from the turbo back.

In addition, the Touring Car version of the 2024 Acura Integra Type S loses soundproofing, underbody coating, audio and HVAC systems to reduce weight. It is also fitted with a rollcage and OMP racing seat with six-part harness.

Aerodynamic additions include an adjustable front splitter and rear spoiler that are unique to the race car.

AP Racing brakes bring everything to a stop up front, though the rear brakes are straight from the roadgoing Integra. An upgraded race suspension includes adjustable camber and caster along with inverted double dampers for greater tunability.

Finally, 18-inch forged wheels are lighter than those from the road car, reducing unsprung weight for better handling.

How the Acura Integra Type S DE5 differs from the Honda Civic Type-R TCX

The Acura Integra Type S DE5 is a marked improvement over the current Honda Civic Type R TCX that HPD races in both TC America and IMSA Michelin Pilot Challenge series’. The Civic racer makes, as standard, 340 horsepower to the Acura’s 360 ponies. That said, the Integra Type S is longer than the Civic Type R. As such, it’s likely a heavier contender than its outgoing sibling.

Critically, both SRO and IMSA include balance-of-performance regulations that will alter weight and horsepower throughout the season. But, with the wider track of the Acura, it boasts a more stable handling platform from which to start building a race-winning pedigree.

Even more notably, the last time Acura had a touring car contender in either series was 2017, before switching to the Honda Civic Type-R platform from 2018 through 2022. And while the NSX has been steadily in GT competition since 2017, the 2024 Acura Integra Type S marks the brand’s first touring car in six years.

Can you buy an Acura Integra race car?

The best part? Anyone willing to start a race team can buy a 2024 Acura Integra Type S DE5 Touring Car. Though it hasn’t released a final price, $25,000 reserves a pre-order from HPD. Still, getting to the racetrack will mean a lot more than just having the car.