2024 Acura Integra in Santa Monica, CA - $0

Having reviewed new vehicles long enough to experience a number of car and truck lines through several generations, what is still truly amazing is how the heat of competition in the American marketplace affects the mix and variety of models and body styles offered by the automakers. A sedan that might have knocked socks off when it was introduced six years and two generations ago might not elicit more than a yawn now -- business is just that brutal in the marketplace these days.

The stage is set for the 2000 Acura Integra. Available in coupe and sedan body styles, it was one of the first entry level car lines launched by an upscale marque, introduced to the public in 1994 and is in its third generation, which is amazing given the state of the market. Available in LS, GS, and GS-R trim levels, the small Acura has always been a driver's car.

A special race car inspired version of the Integra coupe -- the Integra Type R -- makes its debut for the 2000 model year. Positioned as a high-performance, fun-to-drive, for-enthusiasts-only, factory built "racer," the Type R has all the pedigree to back up its claims. Powertrain, suspension, chassis and appearance upgrades guarantee this coupe is not just another "pretty face".

Driving a LS coupe equipped with the base 1.8L four-cylinder engine/five-speed manual transmission, two words come to mind: very impressive! The willing powertrain, precise gearbox and strong midrange performance make the driver smile. How much is this car was selling for? (This car is a bargain for the price. I thought it cost $10,000 MORE than the actual sticker!) This coupe inspires confidence during high speed twisties -- bear in mind this is just the base coupe. The suspension and handling are so stable. Hard stops from 60 miles per hour are straight and uneventful.

Inside the cabin is just as impressive. An excellent driving position and large, well placed displays and controls make a person want to drive for days! The two-door Integra is in actuality a three-door hatchback. A person might never realize it, because the rear hatch is tight, quiet and rattle free. The rear seat area is very snug however. The good news is that the 50/50 split rear seat back folds down flat to increase the available cargo space.

By the numbers

Engine performance numbers are as follows: 1.8L DOHC 16-valve four- cylinder (LS/GS) - 140 hp at 6,300 rpm and 124 lb/ft of torque at 5,200 rpm; 1.8L VTEC DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder (GS-R) - 170 hp at 7,600 rpm and 128 lb/ft of torque at 6,200 rpm; 1.8L VTEC DOHC 16-valve four-cylinder (Type R) - 195 hp at 8,000 rpm and 130 lb/ft of torque at 7,300 rpm. EPA fuel economy ratings range from 25 city/31 highway for the five-speed manual to 24 city/31 highway for the four-speed automatic. The base engine (LS/GS) uses regular unleaded gasoline while the other two require the use of premium unleaded. Underhood fluids are easily accessible but not clearly marked.

Standard safety/security features include: dual front airbags, four-wheel disc brakes with anti-lock, side-impact door beams and immobilizer anti-theft system. The Type R coupe adds a helical limited-slip differential.

At the time this review was written, pricing for the 2000 Acura Integra had not been released. The base Manufacturers Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 1999 Acura Integra started at $19,200 for the LS coupe to $22,400 for the GS-R sedan. Destination charges add $455. Dealers report good supplies of the Integra and there are no rebates on this model.

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