1997: Launch year for the EK9 Type R (introduced August 1997 for 1998 model year). Chassis prefix EK9-100. Original pre-facelift model with standard non-crystal headlights. 7,007 units produced for MY1998. Featured hand-ported B16B engine (185 PS @ 8,200 rpm), Championship White/Vogue Silver/Starlight Black color options, red Recaro seats, 5-speed close-ratio manual with helical LSD. Weight: 1,050 kg through extensive weight reduction (no rear wiper, no parcel shelf, lightweight wheels). Optional Motor Sports edition debuted for racing with steel wheels, manual windows, no A/C or audio to save weight.
1998: 1999 model year facelift (August 1998 production). Chassis prefix EK9-110. Major updates: redesigned "crystal clear" headlights replacing standard units, revised front fenders and bonnet to accommodate new lights, larger front intake grille, brake cooling ducts added to front bumper for improved thermal management. 4,009 units produced for MY1999. Retained same B16B engine specs (185 PS @ 8,200 rpm, 160 Nm @ 7,500 rpm) and 1,050 kg weight. Facelift improved track cooling performance while maintaining the lightweight philosophy.
1999: 2000 model year introduced Type Rx variant (August 1999 production). Chassis prefix EK9-120. Type Rx brought luxury features as standard: CD player, electric folding mirrors, air conditioning, remote central locking, drilled aluminium sports pedals, and polished carbon-fiber-style shroud for central control panel. Standard Type R remained available. 5,225 total units produced for MY2000, with approximately 3,865 being Type Rx specification. Final production year before EK9 ended August 2000. Total EK9 production: 16,241 units (1997-2000).
2000: Final production year (August 2000 end). Continuation of 1999 MY2000 Type Rx specification. Type Rx featured upgraded equipment: CD player, electric folding mirrors, air conditioning, remote central locking, drilled aluminium sports pedals, carbon-fiber-style center console shroud. Production ended August 2000 after 16,241 total EK9 units. The EK9 remains the purest expression of Honda's Type R philosophy and is highly sought after by collectors. Values continue to appreciate, with original Championship White examples commanding premium prices.