Best Car Reviews - 1986 Acura Integra

Introduction

The 1986 Acura Integra marked the debut of this subcompact car, targeted primarily at young professionals and small families looking for a blend of style, performance, and affordability. As Acura's first leap into the subcompact market, the Integra stood out with its combination of sharp design, impressive performance, and innovative features for its time. Its distinctive agility and reliable engineering made it a popular choice among budget-conscious consumers who didn’t want to compromise on performance and style.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1986 Acura Integra boasts a sleek, sporty design typical of the 1980s automotive aesthetic. Its hatchback shape not only provides practicality but also enhances its aerodynamic efficiency. The elongated front with streamlined headlights gives the Integra an assertive appearance, while the compact rear end ensures maneuverability.

Key design elements include:

Compact hatchback design promoting aerodynamic efficiency
Pop-up headlights, a signature feature of many cars from the 1980s
Distinctive rear spoiler offering a sporty edge
Clean, sculpted lines improving visual appeal and reducing drag

Interior and Comfort

Inside, the 1986 Acura Integra combines functionality with comfort. The cabin layout is efficiently designed, prioritizing ease of use and accessibility. Quality materials give the interior a refined touch, creating a cozy atmosphere for both driver and passengers.

Interior highlights include:

Comfortable seating with supportive upholstery
Ergonomically placed controls that are easy to reach
Spacious cargo hold, courtesy of the hatchback design
Manual climate control, providing efficient temperature regulation

Performance and Handling

At the heart of the 1986 Acura Integra is a 1.6-liter, 4-cylinder engine coupled with a manual 5-speed transmission, providing smooth and responsive driving. It delivers robust performance with a power output that was remarkable for its class during its time.

Acceleration, while not the fastest by today's standards, was brisk for its era, with the car going from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 9.5 seconds.
Fuel consumption averages around 11.9 l/100 km, making it a relatively efficient choice for its class.
Front-wheel drive ensures stability and better handling in tight corners and urban environments.
The driving experience is further accentuated by excellent suspension tuning, offering a balance between comfort and control.

Technology and Connectivity

In the tech department, the 1986 Acura Integra sports basic features by modern standards but was quite advanced for its time.

Technology features include:

AM/FM stereo, which was standard in vehicles from this period
Cassette player, a popular feature in the 80s
Power windows and locks, considered luxury features at the time
Air conditioning, enhancing cabin comfort

Safety Features

Safety is a focus for this model, with several features that were considered state-of-the-art during its release.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) providing better control during heavy braking
Durable frame construction improving crash safety
3-point safety belts for all passengers
Side impact bars adding an extra layer of protection

Pricing and Variants

The base price for the 1986 Acura Integra was approximately $10,000 USD at launch, making it a competitive option in the subcompact category.

Pricing insights:

Competitively priced against similar models like the 1986 Honda Civic and 1986 Toyota Corolla.
Available in different trims offering varied levels of luxury and performance.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Stylish design appealing to younger buyers
Good fuel efficiency suitable for daily urban commutes
Reliable performance with solid engineering
Affordable maintenance costs
Strong resale value over the years

Cons

Minimal tech and connectivity features compared to today’s standards
Limited space in rear seats
Noisy cabin at high speeds
Manual transmission may not suit all drivers
Lack of modern safety features like airbags

Maintenance and Common Issues

Maintaining a 1986 Acura Integra is relatively economical, with yearly costs averaging around $500–$700 USD, assuming regular maintenance and no major repairs.

Common issues include:

Rust problems, especially in older models
Wear and tear on manual transmission
Faulty electrical components
Cooling system leaks
Brake system wear

Rating

Overall, the 1986 Acura Integra receives a solid 7.5 out of 10. This breakdown highlights its appeal during its time:

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

User Reviews and Feedback

"Fantastic handling and reliable even after all these years."
"Great car for its time, but I miss modern conveniences."
"It's a classic model that still turns heads."
"Very affordable to maintain. However, rust is an issue."
"I love the driving experience, but it needs more safety features."

Best Cars in This Category

1986 Honda Civic
1986 Toyota Corolla
1986 Ford Escort
1986 Volkswagen Golf
1986 Nissan Sentra

Summary

The 1986 Acura Integra is best suited for enthusiasts of vintage cars, first-time buyers looking for a classic driving experience, or collectors interested in 1980s automotive design. It stands out due to its elegant design, reliable performance, and enduring popularity. While lacking modern tech, its timeless appeal and affordability continue to make it a valuable choice in the used car market. Best appreciated by those who enjoy a hands-on driving experience, the Integra remains a symbol of Acura's commitment to performance and design.