Is the type R really rare? could a person like me get a hold of a type r???

they're not that rare, I see at least 3 everytime I go to a car show. And yes, a person can get one if they really wanted. :)

Rare? Yes, only 1500 were imported to the US in 2001. Impossible to get a hold of? No, you should be able to find one, it will just take some effort and some cash…

they are very rare in the grand scheme of things...
if your looking to buy one check here
autotrader (http://www.autotrader.com)
or here
itrca (http://www.itrca.com)
the second one is under construction but will be up soon and there are type r's for sale all the time there..
goodluck

a dealer could fetch you one if you ask nicley

A dealer should have at least 2 left in the lot,and if not,you can find one on recycler.com

they are pretty rare but it is by no means impossible to get one. i think there was only 500 of the 97s made.