Acura Integra GS-R

V-TEC Engine makes a world of difference

By Steven D. Gatt, Automotive Editor

Last year, when I test drove an Integra it was a special edition that didn't have the VTEC engine. That Integra, while a nice car, didn't have enough power. This Integra has plenty of power and is a blast to drive fast. The GS-R version of the Integra has been winning awards and comparison tests for years. Now, with it's balance of power and handling, it even beat out a BMW 318ti in a recent comparison. (Car and Driver 11/95)

This 1.8L, 16 valve engine had the Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) giving it much more power: 170 hp to be exact. You really couldn't ask for any more options than this car had as standard equipment. Everything except leather seats is seemingly standard; besides leather seats in a sports car allow you to slide around too much in the seat. Read this list of standard features: 5 speed transmission, 4 wheel anti-lock brakes, double wishbone suspension front and rear for better handling, projector beam headlamps--though small they work well. Continuing with the standard feature list: side impact door beams and pads, dual front airbags, air conditioning, tilt steering, intermittent wipers, lumbar support on the drivers seat, front and rear crumple zones. Even more standard features: power windows, power locks, power moonroof, 50/50 split fold down rear seat, rear window defroster, rear window wiper washer, integrated rear spoiler with stop lamp and power antenna (which is annoyingly loud)!

Again, all of this is standard equipment with a base price of only $21,100 plus destination of $435 for a total of $21,535. For comparison shopping check out a Probe GT, BMW 318ti, Eagle Talon TSi AWD. All are more expensive when optioned the same. I even achieved good gas mileage in the Integra, about 28 mpg. EPA ratings are 25 city and 31 highway.

I had a blast in this car. Although small and difficult for my 6'4" frame to get in and out of it was comfortable once inside. I got a chance to open it up on the freeway when it was a little warmer one day and have some fun on some twisty back roads. The Integra handled it all in stride and begged for more. Engine noise only became excessive above 5000 rpm with redline at 8000 rpm. One of the best design features of the Integra is its' short throw shifter, it's quick, light and precise. Small complaints are about the minor league sized back seat best left for storage than people and the overall lack of storage space especially upfront. The center console is tiny at best.

Obviously, if your in the market for this type of sport coupe your shopping is done. The other auto companies know when it comes time to redesign their sport coupes this is the benchmark in power and handling.