For true car lovers, the passion starts young. Many of us can pinpoint that first car that ignited the flame. For some, it’s a high-revving hot hatch built for backroad blasts, for others, a nimble roadster with pop-up headlights and pure driving joy. But when you’re coming up as a car enthusiast, the dream car often clashes with the realities of budget, reliability, and daily usability. You might crave the thrill of a performance sedan, but fear the potential for mechanical nightmares. Or you might consider something dependable, but worry it lacks the spark to truly excite. This is where the Acura 96 Integra enters the picture, specifically the often-overlooked RS trim.
The 1996 Acura Integra RS hits that elusive sweet spot: a sporty, engaging commuter car engineered with the legendary Honda reliability synonymous with models like the Accord and Civic. Yes, beneath the premium Acura badge lies a foundation strongly related to the Honda Civic, but to simply call it a “glorified Civic” is a vast understatement. It’s an elevated experience, a more focused and refined machine that caters directly to the driving enthusiast.
The “RS” designation, indicating “Rally Sport,” marks this as the entry-level trim within the Integra lineup for its final generation in the US market. However, dismissing the acura 96 integra RS due to its base status would be a mistake. In fact, outside of the coveted GS-R and Type R models, the RS variant arguably offers the purest, most driver-centric Integra experience. It’s equipped with just enough essentials for comfortable daily driving, intentionally shedding features like a sunroof and other non-essential frills found in higher trims.
The interior of the acura 96 integra RS is a testament to its enthusiast focus. Forget about distracting touchscreen infotainment systems or complex satellite navigation. The climate controls are delightfully simple – a set of sliders that offer tactile feedback, making you feel engaged even when adjusting the A/C. The steering wheel is refreshingly uncluttered, featuring only a horn button, a throwback to a time before steering wheel-mounted controls became ubiquitous. Cruise control? That’s managed by your right foot, encouraging a more involved driving experience.
This minimalist approach contributes significantly to the acura 96 integra RS‘s lightweight nature, tipping the scales at around 2,500 pounds. Paired with Honda’s robust 1.8-liter B18 engine, producing a respectable 140 horsepower, the Integra RS is remarkably agile. While torque figures might not be groundbreaking, the car’s light weight and responsive chassis allow it to be confidently thrown into corners. Notably, the B18 engine in the RS omits the famed Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system found in GS-R and Type R Integras. However, this omission translates to using regular unleaded gasoline, saving you money at the pump without sacrificing the core driving enjoyment.
Beyond the fun factor, the acura 96 integra RS boasts surprising practicality thanks to its two-door liftback design. The hatchback opens wide, and the rear seats fold down, revealing a generous cargo area. Whether you’re hauling gear for a weekend adventure, moving between apartments, or even transporting car parts, the Integra RS cleverly maximizes its compact footprint.
In conclusion, the 1996 Acura Integra RS stands as a testament to the ideal blend of reliability, practicality, and driving pleasure for the young or budget-conscious enthusiast. Its lightweight design, user-friendly interior, and dependable Honda engineering create a compelling package that’s hard to rival. If you’re considering a fun, affordable, and increasingly sought-after classic, the acura 96 integra RS deserves a serious look – but act fast, as the secret of this gem is starting to get out.
