It’s time to celebrate 40 years for Acura. Honda’s luxury division debuted in the U.S. on March 27, 1986, introducing the Legend and Integra. Rather than a cheesy “you’re old” greeting, Acura is honoring its 40th anniversary with a nod to its first race car.
Revealed on the brand’s official 40th birthday, the Acura Integra 40 Racer pays tribute to the Comptech number 48 vehicle that secured consecutive IMSA International Sedan Series championships for manufacturers and drivers from 1987 to 1990. Crafted by Honda Racing Corporation, it will debut publicly at the Acura-sponsored Long Beach Grand Prix during the weekend of April 19.
The Rio Red Metallic hatchback is driven by the era-authentic D16A1 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, enhanced with a Monsoon ECU and a coil-on-plug conversion, and expels exhaust through a stainless steel 4-2-1 long-tube header alongside a Borla exhaust system. It’s paired with a five-speed manual transmission and a Torsen limited-slip differential.
The suspension is fitted with Tein coilovers and an adjustable panhard bar, and both steering and brakes are manual. In stark contrast to modern performance vehicles, this race car replica features 14-inch wheels shod with Yokohama Advan-A050 semi-slick tires. The cabin includes a roll cage and racing seats equipped with six-point harnesses.
Internally dubbed Channel 2, Acura was publicly announced on April 1, 1984. However, Honda’s initiative to create a luxury division in North America was no April Fool’s prank. Acura surpassed competitors Infiniti and Lexus to establish itself in the market, adopting a dual approach with the Legend and Integra while others focused solely on traditional luxury.
Compact, sporty, and marked with racing numbers almost immediately, the Integra established a blueprint. The 1990s Integra Type R and NSX became symbols of performance, refining Acura’s image to be more dynamic and less formal compared to its Japanese luxury counterparts. Today’s Integra remains a standout in a diminishing market for enjoyable yet practical vehicles, and Acura continues its presence at the pinnacle of IMSA racing.
Currently, however, Acura faces a lull. Honda has canceled its forthcoming electric vehicles, including an Acura crossover that was set to revive the RSX name. Acura had already been tempering its EV aspirations, and now it is halting RDX production with a replacement still years away, leading to significant lost sales. This doesn’t bode well for Acura’s upcoming 40 years.
**Acura Commemorates 40th Anniversary with an Impressive 1986 Integra Race Car Creation**
In 2023, Acura reaches a pivotal milestone, marking 40 years since its launch as Honda’s division for luxury and performance vehicles. To celebrate this event, Acura has rolled out an extraordinary version of the 1986 Integra, a model cherished by automotive aficionados and emblematic of the brand’s dedication to innovation and performance.
The 1986 Acura Integra was among the inaugural models released under the Acura brand, quickly becoming favored for its sporty aesthetics, dependability, and enjoyable driving dynamics. As a compact vehicle, it was highly regarded for its responsive handling and effective engine, securing a place in the hearts of younger drivers and car lovers. The Integra’s legacy persists across generations, cementing its reputation as a classic icon in the automotive industry.
In honor of its 40th anniversary, Acura has taken the original 1986 Integra and reimagined it as a stunning race vehicle. This creation pays tribute to the brand’s motorsport legacy while also highlighting modern performance advancements. The project involved a careful restoration, where the team prioritized maintaining the classic look while incorporating contemporary technology and engineering.
The race car boasts a lightweight frame, upgraded suspension components, and a robust engine that has been refined for racing prowess. The exterior features a vivid color scheme that recalls the original Integra, along with aerodynamic improvements that lend it a more assertive appearance. The interior has been stripped to the essentials, showcasing racing seats, a roll cage, and a cutting-edge dashboard tailored for track conditions.
Acura’s dedication to performance shines through in the selection of the powertrain for this project. The 1986 Integra race car is outfitted with a high-revving engine that provides remarkable horsepower and torque, enabling thrilling acceleration and responsiveness on the racetrack. Advanced brake systems and performance tires further elevate the car’s handling, making it a strong competitor in racing scenarios.
This anniversary project not only honors Acura’s rich heritage but also serves as a testament to the brand’s commitment to innovation and performance. The 1986 Integra race car embodies the spirit of motorsport that has defined Acura’s identity since its inception. It reflects the brand’s continuous pursuit of pushing automotive engineering frontiers while honoring its foundational roots.
Acura intends to display the 1986 Integra race car at multiple automotive events throughout the year, inviting fans and enthusiasts to appreciate this beautiful homage to the brand’s legacy. As Acura moves forward, it remains committed to crafting vehicles that reflect the same passion for performance and excellence that characterized its earlier years.
In closing, the 40th anniversary of Acura not only commemorates its past but also signifies its future. The remarkable build of the 1986 Integra race car encapsulates the brand’s journey, showcasing its milestones and preparing for the next chapter in Acura’s illustrious history.