Best Car Reviews - 1990 Acura Integra

Introduction

The 1990 Acura Integra presents itself as a remarkable addition to the subcompact car segment during its release year. Designed with the youthful and spirited driver in mind, it appeals to those who seek a blend of style, reliability, and performance at an affordable price point. The Integra stands out in its class due to its versatile performance, manual transmission, and elegantly sporty appearance that has remained timeless through the decades.

Design and Exterior Features

The 1990 Acura Integra showcases a sleek and aerodynamic design, typical of early '90s sports cars, but with a unique flair that captures attention on the road. Its compact size makes it nimble while preserving an assertive presence.

Classic hatchback shape with smooth contours.
Pop-up headlights adding nostalgic appeal.
Uniquely designed front grille for a sharper look.
Distinctive alloy wheels enhancing overall style.
Available sunroof for an open-air driving experience.

Interior and Comfort

The interior of the Integra provides a balance between functionality and a touch of refinement, making it a delightful space for both drivers and passengers. The cabin layout is straightforward, yet intuitive.

High-quality fabric seating that remains comfortable on long journeys.
Driver-focused dashboard, with easy-to-read gauges.
Ample headroom and legroom despite compact classification.
Standard audio system with cassette player for entertainment.
Foldable rear seats to maximize cargo space.

Performance and Handling

Under the hood, the 1990 Acura Integra is equipped with a 1.8-liter, 4-cylinder engine, capable of delivering engaging performance with its manual 5-speed transmission. This setup ensures an invigorating driving experience.

Acceleration from 0 to 100 km/h in approximately 8 seconds.
City driving experiences smooth with its efficient handling and compact size.
On the highway, the Integra remains stable and responsive.
Pent-up power and agility make cornering engaging and fun.
Fuel consumption is efficient at around 12.9 l/100 km.

Technology and Connectivity

The technology and connectivity offerings in this model were innovative for its time, ensuring drivers had access to essential features even three decades ago.

Basic infotainment system with manual tuning options.
Functional climate control enhancing the driving experience.
Optional car alarm for added security.
Simplistic analog dashboard with clear visibility.

Safety Features

Although safety technology in the 1990 Integra was limited compared to today's standards, it still offered reliable basic safety features for its era.

Anti-lock braking system (ABS) as an option.
Driver and passenger seat belts ensuring foundational safety.
Crumple zones incorporated in the vehicle's design.
Rated highly in the context of early '90s safety standards.

Pricing and Variants

Upon release, the 1990 Acura Integra was priced competitively:

Base model starts at approximately $13,500 USD.
Available in a variety of trims including LS, GS, and RS.
Priced similarly to competitors like the Honda Civic and Nissan Sentra at the time.

Pros and Cons

Pros

Engaging and fun-to-drive manual transmission.
Timeless exterior design.
Reliable engine performance.
Affordable maintenance costs.
Spacious cargo room for a subcompact.

Cons

Limited advanced safety features by modern standards.
Basic interior technology compared to today's vehicles.
High fuel consumption relative to modern subcompacts.
No modern infotainment system.
Sparse interior luxury features.

Maintenance and Common Issues

The Integra is generally known for its reliability, though some common issues have been noted by owners.

Average annual maintenance cost is around $500 to $700.
Issues include oil leaks that develop over time.
Fading paint on exterior due to age.
Worn-out suspension components from normal wear and tear.
Intermittent electrical faults such as window motors.
Transmission synchro wear in prolonged manual use.

Rating

Overall Rating: 7.5/10
Design: 8/10
Comfort: 7/10
Performance: 8/10
Technology: 6/10
Safety: 7/10

User Reviews and Feedback

"The Integra is incredibly fun to drive, especially with the manual transmission. It's timeless!"
"I love how it looks; I get compliments even today. But it does drink fuel."
"For a 1990 model, it's pretty reliable and still runs smoothly with regular maintenance."
"The interior could've been better, but the car's performance makes up for everything."
"A great car that has served me well for years. Finds issues in the electrical system occasionally."

Best cars in this category

1990 Honda Civic
1990 Nissan Sentra
1990 Toyota Corolla
1990 Ford Escort
1990 Volkswagen Jetta

Summary

The 1990 Acura Integra is an excellent choice for drivers who appreciate classic design combined with lively performance. While it may not boast the modern tech and luxury of today's cars, it offers timeless style and engaging driving dynamics that have kept it popular among enthusiasts. It's an ideal purchase for those seeking a reliable, fun-to-drive subcompact car that remains memorable on the road.