08/08/2026
1986–1989 Acura Integra LS (1st Gen) | Metallic Teal
Before the Integra became a tuner icon, it earned its reputation by simply being one of the best-engineered compact cars of its era. Introduced under Acura—the first Japanese luxury brand in North America—the first-generation Integra proved that an affordable front-wheel-drive coupe could offer refinement, reliability, and genuine driving enjoyment all in one package.
The LS trim struck a perfect balance between comfort and performance. Powered by Honda's legendary 1.6-liter DOHC 16-valve engine, it delivered smooth high-revving performance that was years ahead of many competitors. While its horsepower figures may seem modest today, the lightweight chassis, precise steering, and excellent suspension tuning made the Integra feel far quicker than the numbers suggested.
One of the Integra's biggest strengths was its engineering. Honda used double-wishbone suspension on all four corners—a feature more commonly found on expensive sports cars at the time. This setup gave the Integra exceptional cornering ability and road feel, helping establish Honda's reputation for building some of the best-handling front-wheel-drive cars ever made.
The metallic teal finish shown here perfectly captures late-1980s automotive styling. Combined with the clean body lines, slim pillars, and understated design, it remains a timeless look that has aged remarkably well. Unlike many modern cars covered in aggressive creases and oversized grilles, the first-generation Integra relied on simple proportions and thoughtful design.
Little-known facts:
• The Integra was one of the first Acura models ever sold when the brand launched in the United States in 1986.
• Early Integras helped introduce many North American buyers to Honda's advanced multi-valve DOHC engine technology long before VTEC became a household name.
• Despite being marketed as a luxury compact, many mechanical components were engineered to Honda's famously high reliability standards, allowing many examples to surpass 300,000 miles with proper maintenance.
• The first-generation Integra was available in both three-door and five-door body styles, making it surprisingly practical for its time.
• Many enthusiasts overlook the non-VTEC first-generation cars today, but they laid the foundation for every legendary Integra that followed—including the GS-R and Type R. Without this generation proving the formula, the Integra might never have become one of the most respected names in automotive history.
Today, clean, unmodified first-generation Integras are becoming increasingly rare. Many were driven hard, modified extensively, or simply worn out over decades of daily use. Seeing an original example preserved in factory condition is becoming a special sight, reminding us of an era when lightweight engineering, simplicity, and driver engagement mattered more than horsepower wars.
The first-generation Acura Integra isn't just an old Honda—it's the car that quietly set the standard for affordable sport compacts. More than three decades later, it still earns admiration for its reliability, intelligent engineering, and timeless design. Sometimes, true classics don't shout for attention—they simply continue to impress generation after generation.
