Honda Integra Review Australia | Features and Specifications

• Car Reviews,
• Jun 09, 2020

If you were to divide the whole of mankind in two, on one side you will have people who love Honda, and those who do not on the other side. Nonetheless, there is no doubt that Honda has been known to produce some of the biggest iconic cars in the past, which have received global acclaim and are considered classics.

 

The Honda Integra, also known as the Acura Integra in some regions of the World, is one such car produced by Honda from 1986 to 2006, spanning four generations. The car speaks volumes and makes you a believer in the Japanese car manufacturing capabilities and is intended as a luxurious and sportier version of the popular Honda Civic.

 

The Integra received positive accolades throughout its life, and the Integra Type R is considered globally as being one of the best front-wheel-drive cars ever produced. Such was its popularity that it was mentioned in the top ten best list of cars six times by the ‘Car and Driver’ magazine. Another plus point of the Integra is the numerous Honda stores throughout the country, where you can easily get your hands on all parts and accessories that may require it. What makes the Honda Integra such a success? Let us find out!

 

Honda Integra Specifications and Features:

The first generation of the Honda Integra started production in 1986 and came in two engine variants. Even though they shared the same engine code, D16A1, there were still some minor differences that set them apart. The first one was informally known as the ‘Browntop’ and the other one was known as the ‘Blacktop’, due to the different colors of their valve covers. The Blacktop engine was the improved version, with a domed position for a compression that was higher than before, lighter rods, and an advanced distributor.

 

Honda introduced its first-ever VTEC engines in its second generation of the Integra. The following variants were a beautiful combination of the engine with the chassis, which is seldom seen anywhere else. The engine weighs just over a ton, a 1.8-liter naturally aspirated petrol engine. The engine outputs a power of 200 bhp which is unthinkable to expect from a vehicle even in today’s standards. The gearbox employs a short ratio Limited slip differential that has impressed even those who normally doubt Honda’s ability to manufacture cars.

 

Next in line was the infamous Honda Integra Type R DC2, which was initially introduced domestically in the Japanese market. It carried a factory-tuned variant of the 1.8-liter B18C engine, outputting an impressive 195 horsepower. It also applied a five-speed manual transmission close ratio along with a Helical LSD for a promise of greater performance than before. The engine uses a fancy coating on the pistons for reduced friction and any damage that may be caused by the cylinder walls. Another thing that makes the engine special was that the bolts were torqued by a human, instead of being done by a machine for a perfect tolerance. The same was applied to the intake manifolds.

 

The Integra Type R has crowned the best handled front-wheel-drive car for almost two decades, which can be attributed to its independent rear suspension and the front suspension which consisted of a double-wishbone. The chassis was also designed in a robust and ingenious way to give the best drive that you could possibly imagine.

 

The last in line was the DC5 Type R, introduced in 2001 and ended in 2006, marking the end of the Honda Integra series. The DC5 came loaded with a brand-new engine series, known as the K-series. More specifically, the car applied a 2.0-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine, outputting a hefty 164 kW of power which equals 220 HP. Standard features that are notable include Brembo brakes with four pistons, RECARO seats, stiff suspension than before, and a limited-slip differential.

 

Honda Integra Exterior:

Honda made sure to give sure visibility to buyers so that they know what they are getting their hands on. The car is neatly built with not a single imperfection, no matter how critically you look at it. Emblems and badges are displayed on multiple surfaces, leaving no doubt to the Integra’s identity.

 

All models support Enkei alloy wheels, with variable heights across the different models. Giving it a sportier look and helping the aerodynamics, the Integra supports a rear wing spoiler, which may be surprising for a front-wheel-drive car. The windows were also designed to reduce the weight of the car, and the result is a vehicle that is ready to race!

 

Honda Integra Interior:

Given that this was a car that started manufacturing in the previous century, you cannot help but be amazed when you look at the interior and the comfort level which is given. The RECARO seats were standard, with a choice for the user to choose between black or red color. The seats have plenty of foam and bolster which ensures that you do not get tired even on longer rides.

 

The steering wheel is another exciting feature that allows you to have an excellent grip on the wheel and keeps reminding you of the control you have on the vehicle. Adding to the race car feeling is the lack of interior deadening, which has been removed on purpose to keep the weight of the car optimum.

 

Honda Integra Review:

The best thing about the Honda Integra is that like most Honda cars, this is a driver-oriented car designed to provide the best driving experience. The comfort and stability when combined with the engine power that is harnessed, this is a car that demands to be driven fast. An added plus is the engine’s fuel efficiency that proved to be light on the pocket.

 

The steering wheel is perfectly sized, and the seating position is great, which is bound to fall in love with the car and never lets you get bored. Navigating around tight corners is made laughably easy on the Integra, which can be attributed to the stiff suspension and the way the chassis is designed. The body is yet another wonder, with special stress on aerodynamics.

 

In conclusion, the Honda Integra is always a delight to drive keeping you engaged and excited. The only drawback you might notice is that it is not as fast as some cars, but that is since the Integra is low in weight and resulting in a low torque.