Sold as a hatchback as well as a sedan the sporty small front-wheel drive available in 3-door, 4-door and 5-door models, Acura Integra offered competition to the 1980s’ popular “hot hatch”, the contemporary Volkswagen Golf GTI. Till the emergence of the fourth generation of Integra the sedan was offered in all the previous generations. 1.6liter 4-cylinder engine, 113 horsepower, a standard 5-speed manual transmission, an optional 4-speed automatic transmission was featured by the first generation Integra.
Released in 1990, available in two designs, ascribed with 1.8liter 4-cylinder engine, 130horsepower, a standard 5-speed manual transmission, an optional 4-speed automatic transmission, the improved second generation Integra introduced the GS trims along with RS and LS with the addition of improved standard equipments, antilock brakes and enhanced interiors.
Reliability accompanied by performance took Integra to eminence, drawing customers with various demands, such as those willing for relatively inexpensive options to German imports, those interested for simple commuter vehicle as well as those desiring a solid base that can be modified using performance parts. Just next to NSX Integra used VTEC variable valve timing system in 1990s squeezing out whatever power that the small engine of 4 cylinders could provide offering impressive fuel efficiency simultaneously. With Integra ascribed with comfort, quality and an aerodynamic streamlined design having its third and last generations ranging from1994 to 2001, Acura car held a position to contend in the international market.
Featuring 170 horsepower 4cylinder engine of 1.8 liters accompanied by VTEC and close ratio 5-speed manual, Integra GS-R proved to be easy to drive for daily basis as well as enjoyable to ride. The third generation models of Acura Integra became the most popular primarily due its innovative style with its new bodywork and headlights.
Debuting in 1997, available in Championship White color only, the limited edition of Acura Integra Type R concentrated totally on performance attributed with 195 horsepower, 1.8liter engine, a suspension system that is well tuned, improved brakes, limited slip differential, close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission and a body weight reduced by 100 pounds due to usage of lighter body panels and parts. With limited weight reduction of 33 pounds, obtainable in black and yellow, Type R was produced by Acura again in 1998 and 2000. The third generation car models of Acura Integra continued to be in the market followed by the emergence of the fourth generation models.
Renamed as Acura RSX, Integra models of fourth generation were produced during the years 2002-2006 featuring a completely new engine of the K-series.
It was ranked among the yearly list of the Car and Driver magazine six times from 1994 to 1997 and previously in 1988 and in 1987. In 2002 and also in 2003 Acura RSX found its place Ten Best list of the Car and Driver magazine. Evo Magazine named the Integra Type-R (DC2) as the preeminent drivers’ car in the front-wheel-drive category in 2006.
Apart from being consistently popular, accepted and dependable with longevity and reliability Acura Integra car models are often bought with the motive of after market modification facilitated by the availability of after market parts and accessories from different manufacturers.