Best Car Reviews - 1990 Acura Integra

Introduction

The 1990 Acura Integra marked a significant moment in the evolution of compact cars, offering a blend of performance, style, and practicality. Released as part of Acura's push to capture the hearts of younger, performance-driven enthusiasts, the Integra quickly became a go-to model for those seeking a spirited yet budget-friendly driving experience. This model stands out due to its sharp design, reliable performance, and impressive fuel efficiency, setting a standard in the subcompact car segment.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1990 Acura Integra sports a sleek and aerodynamic design, characterized by its streamlined bodywork and compact size. Its curved edges and pointed features give it a modern yet aggressive look, perfectly encapsulating the spirit of the early 90s.

Distinctive pop-up headlights that add to its sporty charm.
Integrated rear spoiler for enhanced aerodynamics.
15-inch alloy wheels providing a sturdy foundation.
Sleek side mirrors that contribute to the vehicle's aerodynamic efficiency.
Bold front grille design that gives the Integra a distinctive face.

Interior and Comfort

Stepping inside the Acura Integra, drivers and passengers are greeted with a thoughtfully laid-out cabin, designed with driver-centric ergonomics and comfort in mind. The use of high-quality materials gives it a refined feel despite its subcompact classification.

Supportive bucket seats that enhance driving comfort on longer journeys.
User-friendly dashboard layout with easy-to-read gauges.
Spacious rear seating for a subcompact, making it practical for daily use.
Air conditioning and a tilt steering wheel for added comfort.
Ample cargo space in the hatchback version, increasing practicality.

Performance and Handling

Powered by a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine, the 1990 Integra is tailored for a spirited drive. This Front-Wheel Drive setup is mated with an automatic 4-speed transmission, creating a seamless blend of fuel efficiency and performance. Although primarily built for efficiency, this vehicle can accelerate from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8.9 seconds.

Driving the Integra offers a dynamic experience, whether navigating urban streets or cruising on the highway. It provides responsive handling, impressive cornering capability, and a smooth ride.

Fuel consumption of about 13.52 l/100 km, making it fairly efficient for its time.
Smooth acceleration with precise gear shifts.
Responsive steering that makes city driving enjoyable.
Moderate engine noise that becomes more pronounced at higher speeds.
Stable handling even during sharp turns.

Technology and Connectivity

For its time, the Integra was equipped with a decent range of technology features to enhance the driving experience. While it may not boast modern tech, it still offers some practical features.

Basic AM/FM stereo with a cassette player, catering to music enthusiasts of the late 80s and early 90s.
Standard instrumentation for essential driving information.
Cruise control for comfortable long-distance travel.
Manual climate controls ensuring basic climate comfort.
Adjustable dashboard lighting for better visibility at night.

Safety Features

Safety is paramount, and the Integra integrated key features to ensure driver and passenger security. While it may lack advanced modern systems, it covers the basics effectively.

Front disc brakes and rear drum brakes for consistent stopping power.
Side-impact door beams offering added protection during collisions.
Standard seatbelts for all passengers.
Energy-absorbing crumple zones to mitigate crash impact.
High crash test ratings for its class during the early 90s.

Pricing and Variants

The base price of the 1990 Acura Integra in the U.S. market was relatively competitive, offering good value for its performance and features. The model was available in multiple trims, catering to various preferences.

Base price starting at approximately $12,000 USD.
Available in RS, LS, and GS trims, each offering distinct features.
Competitive pricing compared to rivals like the Honda Civic and the Toyota Corolla.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Sporty and stylish design that remains timeless.
Reliable engine performance with smooth handling.
Fuel-efficient for its era, reducing overall running costs.
Spacious interior for a subcompact car.
Strong build quality ensuring longevity.

Cons

Limited modern tech features, lacking advanced infotainment.
Higher fuel consumption compared to newer models.
Slight road noise due to less insulation.
Basic safety features without modern advancements.
Interior materials could be improved for a more luxurious feel.

Maintenance and Common Issues

Owning a 1990 Integra comes with maintenance responsibilities typical for a car of its age, averaging around $500 - $700 annually.

Oil leaks due to aging gaskets.
Worn-out suspension components needing occasional replacement.
Electrical issues related to older wiring.
Brake system wear, requiring regular checks.
Exhaust system corrosion over time.

Rating

Assigning a rating to the 1990 Acura Integra involves evaluating its various facets:

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

Overall Rating: 7.2/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"I love my Integra for its classic look and reliable performance. It's a bit noisy at high speeds, but it's a small trade-off!"
"The handling is superb, especially on winding roads. I've had mine for over a decade and it's still going strong."
"The tech is outdated, but it's a 1990 model. The driving experience is delightful, which makes up for it."
"Fuel efficiency isn't as great as modern cars, but it's decent for its time. A joy for city drives."
"Maintenance has been reasonable. I've had minor issues, but the durability is impressive for such an old car."

Best Cars in this Category

1990 Honda Civic
1990 Toyota Corolla
1991 Nissan Sentra
1990 Mazda MX-5 Miata
1991 Ford Escort

Summary

The 1990 Acura Integra is best suited for enthusiasts who appreciate a blend of stylish design, reliable performance, and decent fuel efficiency. While it may lack modern tech features, its solid build and engaging driving experience make it a worthy choice in the subcompact car segment. Offering good value for the price, this model remains a favorite among classic car lovers who value performance and practicality.