2005 Honda Civic (EP3) Type R - 17,000 Miles From New

The Cheshire Collection is a carefully curated ensemble of modern classics that represent our vendor's enthusiasm, and are all offered on a No Reserve basis to make way for new additions to their respective collections. For nearly a decade, they have been a welcome sight at our auctions, and whilst we have appreciated their energetic bidding, we have valued their chats, enthusiast to enthusiast, just as much. Each car is special, whether it's the vastly improved 1973 Ford Escort, the last production Sierra RS Cosworth showing more than 21,000 miles, the fabulous 12,000km 'Group N' Escort Cosworth, the well-maintained Clio V6, the one-owner, low-mileage Evo VI GSR to, perhaps, the best 2005 Honda Civic Type R on the market.

Developed and produced by Honda since September 1997, the first Civic Type R was the third model to receive Honda's Type R badge, after the NSX and Integra. Type R versions of the Civic typically feature a lightened and stiffened body, specially tuned engine, upgraded brakes and chassis, and are offered with 5-or 6-speed manual transmission. Like other Type R models, red is used in the background of the Honda badge to give it a special sporting distinction and to separate it from other models.

In 2001, Honda introduced the next generation of the Civic Type R as a 3-door hatchback, unique to the UK market and known as the EP3. Manufactured in Swindon, this European Domestic Market Civic Type R featured a 197bhp, 2-litre VTEC engine (K20A2) and the regular Type R treatment of seam-welding, a close-ratio 6-speed transmission and upgraded brakes. It was first registered on 1st March 2005 and has returned to Honda main agents a total of 14 times for servicing as evidenced by the service book and recent invoices. It has covered just less than 17,500 miles and is presented to auction in a commensurate condition.

Offered at No Reserve and keenly estimated, this motorcar represents a fantastic opportunity to buy one of the finest examples on the market and an ideal 'first classic', albeit a rather swift modern one!