[twitchyzero]

not official because it wasn't the production model but an interesting read...apparently might only differ in chassis rigidity

Since it was a pre-production car, Honda will have to set the time again in a fully ready production car. Honda contends that the engine, suspension, drivetrain, exhaust, brakes and full aerodynamic package were in the exact same specifications as the production car. In addition, the engine tune, amount of turbo boost and air-to-fuel ratio mappings were identical to the production car as well. To offset the addition of a roll cage, Honda took out enough accessories to equal the weight of the regular Civic Type R. The reason that Honda went around the Nurburgring setting this time was simply for tire testing. Because the Honda Civic Type R was pre-production, the drivers safety was paramount above setting a fast lap time. That means that with the subtraction of the roll cage, entire chassis rigidity in the production car might not be as stiff (lower lap time.) Nevertheless, Honda is confident they can repeat, if not break this performance.

Honda Civic Type R breaks the Nurburgring Front Wheel Drive lap record - Fresno Car Buying | Examiner.com