I've finally given up waiting for on the ideal Altezza to turn up - I've put a deposit down on an Accord Type R, picking it up next weekend.
On paper it's relatively similar to the RS200 - just over 200bhp with a VVT engive in a 4 door saloon (albeit FWD rather than RWD).
However it leans much more towards a sporty car, whereas the RS200 is more of a GT type car. The recaro interior of the ATR is fantastic, but I have to admit the dash is a bit ho hum - very functional, without the flair of the Altezza. However FWD means there is loads more room inside.
Externally, it's not ugly by any means - but again doesn't quite have the flair of the RS200.
The VTEC on the Honda is fantastic - when it kicks in the car just snarls. It sounds like a formula one car. In truth it's probably no better than the VVT kick of the RS200, but it sounds 100 times better. As a driver of average skill, I can't tell the difference between FWD and RWD, and to be honest I prefer the safety of knowing I can put my foot down without the risk of ending up heading backwards into a tree.
Some pictures: