by Creating a unique car for the anniversary
Acura is celebrating the 40th anniversary of its debut in the US market in 1986 with the Legend and Integra models. Instead of a traditional celebration, the brand decided to mark the anniversary by doing what it does best – creating a special car. This is not just any car, but a unique version of the first-generation Integra, reimagined as a tribute to the victorious racing car.
Inspired by racing heritage
This exclusive project was created by Honda Racing Corporation (HRC). It is inspired by car number 48, the Comptech Integra, which won manufacturer and driver championships in the IMSA International Sedan series from 1987 to 1990. Fans will be able to see this car at the 51st Acura Grand Prix of Long Beach from April 17 to 19.
The special Integra is painted in Rio Red metallic and sits on lightweight 14-inch Mugen wheels. HRC engineers also used products from renowned tuning ateliers, including Tein shock absorbers, high-performance Carbotech brake pads, an adjustable Panhard rod, a manual steering rack, and flexible stainless steel brake lines.
The heart of the car: an updated powertrain
Under the hood, serious changes have also taken place. The original 1.6-liter naturally aspirated four-cylinder D16A1 engine was completely rebuilt along with the five-speed manual transmission. It was fitted with a Monsoon engine control unit, stainless steel headers, a custom Borla exhaust system, and an ignition system with individual coils for each spark plug.
The installation of a Torsen limited-slip differential is expected to provide the car with excellent road grip, akin to the best front-wheel-drive sports models from Honda and Acura. The interior received a roll cage, OMP sports seats, and six-point safety harnesses.
Historical context and the brand’s future
Honda’s creation of the premium Acura brand was a bold move for its time. Sensing growing demand among buyers for luxury cars, the Japanese manufacturer announced its intentions as early as the beginning of 1984. The Legend and Integra models appeared on March 27, 1986, a full three years before Toyota launched Lexus.
This anniversary project is a reminder of how Acura managed not only to establish itself in the market but also to release iconic, trend-setting models like the NSX. Today, the brand continues to evolve, bringing back legendary names like Integra for a new generation. The future of Acura for the next 40 years remains open, but it will undoubtedly be built on a solid foundation of engineering excellence and racing heritage, so vividly embodied by this unique Integra. Such projects not only pay tribute to the past but also serve as a reminder of the brand’s core values, which could be the key to its further success in the era of electrification and autonomous driving.
