ENHANCED PERFORMANCE. CONTINUED REFINEMENT
The Acura Integra line of sports sedans has been refined for 1988 and continues to provide spirited performance and exceptional value. Horsepower has been increased by five to 118hp., while interior refinements add to driver and passenger comfort. Available as a 3-door or 5-door hatchback in the fully-equipped RS or top of the line LS versions, all Integra models feature a technologically advanced 16-valve, DOHC fuel-injected 1.6-liter engine, sports-tuned suspension and 4-wheel disc brakes.
"The Acura Integra sports sedans have been an immediate success in the marketplace," said Ed Taylor, vice president of the Acura Automobile Division. "With the interior and exterior refinements and additional horsepower for 1988, we expect the Integra to become even more popular with the knowledgeable, driving enthusiast buyers."
The aerodynamically efficient Integra body was designed using advanced Computer Aided Design techniques and extensive wind tunnel testing. Retractable halogen headlights, nearly-flush glass and flush door handles and a smoothly sloped rear window contribute to a coefficient of drag of just 0.34. For 1988, the integrated front spoiler/air dam has been redesigned.
Unit-body construction and utilization of compact mechanical components -- including engine and suspension --allows efficient utilization of interior space and an extremely tight body/chassis platform.
The race-bred Acura Integra engine reflects the advanced technology developed by Honda Research & Development Co., Ltd. engineers through the company's long-standing Formula 1 Grand Prix association. For 1988, the lightweight aluminum alloy (with cast iron cylinder liners) engine produces 118 horsepower and 103 lbs-ft of torque. With a sportier feel for a broad range of driving conditions, the powerplant offers an outstanding blend of power and fuel efficiency.
The engine incorporates sophisticated design elements, including four valves per cylinder and centrally-located spark plug for more efficient combustion, tuned intake and exhaust manifolds for strong mid-range torque, and an advanced computer-controlled Programmed Fuel Injection system which maintains the most efficient air/fuel mixture under all driving conditions. Mated to the engine is a choice of transmissions: a standard short-throw 5-speed or optional 4-speed automatic with lockup torque converter.
The Integra suspension provides a balance of agile handling and comfortable ride. The front suspension utilizes an independent strut/torsion bar design. In the rear, progressively-wound coil springs and gas-pressurized shocks provide a firm, comfortable ride regardless of the road. Stabilizer bars are used front and rear to minimize body roll during cornering
Integra's refined front-wheel drive system virtually eliminates traditional front-wheel drive torque steer through utilization of equal length halfshafts. And, standard power-assisted rack-and-pinion steering provides positive road feel and control while maintaining low steering effort at slower speeds.
Power-assisted 4-wheel disc brakes with ventilated front rotors provide predictable, fade-resistant stopping. Low-profile 190/60 R14 steel-belted radial tires enhance handling and traction.
Excellent interior passenger and cargo room is provided by Integra's long wheelbase and wide track. The convenient hatchback design, with its large, easy-opening hatch, cargo cover and low liftover height, and the standard split fold-down rear seat backs, add versatility for carrying bulky cargo.
The ergonomically-designed cockpit features a redesigned wraparound instrument panel for 1988. Large, white-on-black analog gauges -including standard tachometer --are precisely positioned for easy readability. All frequently used switches and controls are conveniently placed within easy reach of the steering wheel. An adjustable steering column is standard on all models
Integra's redesigned body-contoured front bucket seats with thigh and torso bolsters provide firm but comfortable support. See-through headrests are offered on all 3-door models. A new center console on all LS versions offers convenient storage of cassettes and other items, while the rich Moquette upholstery and deep cut-pile carpeting is designed for comfort and durability. New for all 1988 models are 3-point seatbelts on both rear outboard seating positions and adjustable front seat belt anchors on all 5-door models.
Integra automobiles are available in RS and LS trim levels. The fully-equipped RS version includes standard features such as side window defoggers, remote hatch and fuel-filler door releases, dual remote-operated rearview mirrors, rear window wiper/washer and defroster, front door storage pockets, cargo area cover, digital quartz clock, two-speed wipers with intermittent action, and easy-to-reach heating and ventilation controls
In addition to the above features, the 3-door Integra LS includes a new standard power-operated sunroof with shade. Power windows and central door locks are standard on the 5-door LS, while AM/FM stereo sound system with 7-band graphic equalizer, cruise control and stylish alloy wheels with Michelin MXV tires are standard on both 3-door and 5-door LS versions.
Air conditioning and the 4-speed automatic transmission with lockup torque converter are optionally available on all 3-door and 5-door RS and LS models. Six new exterior colors are offered in 1988 -- including Almond Creme, Laguna Gold, Cardinal Red, Superior Blue, Montreal Blue and Flint Black -- providing Integra buyers with the largest selection ever
All Acura Integra automobiles feature extensive use of anti-corrosion materials, including zinc-coated steel, electrolytic duplex alloy-coated steel, and hot-dipped and iron-zinc alloy steels. All models carry a 3-year, 36,000-mile limited warranty.
In 1987, the Acura Integra was selected as one of CAR AND DRIVER magazine's "10 Best Cars" and was runner-up to the Acura Legend Coupe in MOTOR TREND's "Import Car of the Year" competition. And, the Integra dominated the 1987 IMSA (International Motor Sports Association) International Sedan Series competition, with Doug Peterson and Parker Johnstone winning eight of 10 races. Acura won the Manufacturer's Championship and Johnstone the Driver's Championship.
"In just a short time the Acura Integra has established a strong reputation as a winning product with the automotive media, with a growing list of satisfied owners, and in racing competition," said Taylor. "The Integra's blend of attractive styling, advanced technology and sporty performance is enhanced in 1988."