Best Car Reviews - 1987 Acura Integra

Introduction

The 1987 Acura Integra, a gem from the late 80s, marked a significant milestone in Acura's lineup as it catered to the automotive enthusiasts seeking a blend of performance, economy, and style. Launched in an era when stylish subcompact cars were gaining traction, this model targeted young professionals and those seeking a reliable, yet spirited driving experience. What makes the 1987 Integra stand out is its combination of sleek design, engaging manual transmission, and practical fuel economy, making it an attractive option for those who wanted more than just a daily driver.

Design and Exterior Features

The Acura Integra's design is a classic representation of the 80s automotive style, sporting a hatchback profile that merged functionality with aesthetics. Its streamlined shape provided not just visual appeal but also helped in enhancing aerodynamics. Key design elements included:

Pop-up headlights that added a futuristic touch.
A low, sporty front grille that emphasized its performance-oriented nature.
Compact yet spacious hatchback body, ensuring practicality.
Alloy wheels, giving it a premium look compared to its peers.

Interior and Comfort

Inside the 1987 Integra, the focus on driver engagement and comfort is evident. The cabin layout is intuitive and wraps around the driver, offering easy access to controls. The materials used were of higher quality compared to many competitors of its time, emphasizing durability and a touch of luxury.

Seats covered in premium fabric providing good support and comfort.
Ample legroom for front passengers, which was a plus for long drives.
Driver-oriented dashboard, simplifying access to essential controls.
Manual transmission lever, enhancing the hands-on driving experience.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1987 Acura Integra houses a 4-cylinder engine paired with a 5-speed manual transmission. This setup ensured an engaging driving experience that was rare for subcompact cars at the time.

With its front-wheel-drive (FWD) layout, the Integra provided stable and predictable handling, making it equally adept in city traffic and on the highway. The car boasts a decent acceleration time, clocking 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 9 seconds, which was commendable for its class.

Engine: FFS, offering robust performance at moderate fuel efficiency.
Fuel consumption is around 11.9 l/100 km, ensuring a balance between power and economy.
Smooth handling, making it easy to navigate tight city streets.
Responsive steering, providing good feedback and control.

Technology and Connectivity

While the technology in 1987 isn’t comparable to modern standards, the Acura Integra came equipped with foundational features that catered to the tech needs of that era.

Basic audio system offering good sound quality.
Standard AM/FM radio and cassette player.
Ergonomically positioned dials for ease of use while driving.

Safety Features

Safety in the 1987 Acura Integra was straightforward, with features aimed at providing a secure driving experience.

Reinforced body structure, offering better crash protection.
Reliable braking system, enhancing stopping power.
3-point seatbelts for added passenger safety.
Standard halogen lighting, improving night visibility.

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 1987 Acura Integra initially stood competitively in the market for around $10,000 USD. It was available in multiple trims which offered slightly varied features and performance tweaks. Compared to rivals in the same category, Acura Integra's pricing was reasonable given its performance-driven design.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Excellent performance and handling for a subcompact.
Durable and well-constructed interior materials.
Sleek and timeless exterior design.
Reasonably low maintenance costs.
Engaging manual transmission.

Cons

Relatively higher fuel consumption compared to newer models.
Limited modern tech features.
Cabin noise can be noticeable at high speeds.
Lack of advanced safety technologies by today's standards.
Rear passenger space can be tight.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Regular maintenance for this classic includes routine oil changes, brake inspections, and periodic engine checks, amounting to approximately $500 - $700 annually.

Oil leaks are a common issue with aging models.
Suspension wear due to mileage and road conditions.
Rust especially in areas with harsh climates.
Exhaust system repairs are frequent in older units.
Electrical issues related to age and part availability.

Rating

Overall, the 1987 Acura Integra earns a respectable 8 out of 10.

Design: 9/10
Comfort: 7/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 6/10
Safety: 7/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The Acura Integra has been my go-to car for its sporty performance and reliability."
"I absolutely love the manual transmission – it's a driver's delight!"
"Maintenance is affordable, but parts can be a bit tricky to find due to its age."
"Comfortable for the driver, but could have better tech features."
"Great value for money even after all these years."

Best cars in this category

1987 Honda Civic
1987 Toyota Corolla
1987 Volkswagen Golf
1987 Ford Escort
1987 Nissan Sentra

Summary

The 1987 Acura Integra remains an appealing choice for car enthusiasts appreciating a blend of classic design and spirited performance. Its manual transmission and sporty demeanor make it a joy for driving aficionados, while its durability and efficient performance ensure it’s a sensible choice for everyday use. The Integra is best suited for those who appreciate the nostalgia of the late 80s automobiles but aren't ready to compromise entirely on modern comfort and driveability.