Acura Integra GS-R

The Acura Integra GS-R model was first developed in 1992. It was available in the second and third generation body style. The GS-R model is equipped with a 1.8 liter VTEC (variable valve timing) engine which is capable of 170 Horse power. The GS-R was known as the performance model of the Integra other than the extremely rare TYPE R [1] which is even better. The GS-R was a desired car by many because it was fun to drive yet also was a good daily driver. Many people enjoyed the GS-R because it wasn’t as pricey as the German sports cars yet still had great reliability. The GS-R was the second car behind the legendary NSX to get the VTEC engine. During the mid 1990’s the Acura Integra GS-R was one of the most powerful non turbo charged cars available in the American market.

VTEC Engines

VTEC engines are known to be reliable, so reliable that Honda or Acura has never had a warranty claim on the VTEC systems (Top Gear). The Specific engine that is in the Integra GS-R is known as the B18c1 (picture).The GS-R came equipped with a dual-stage intake manifold, ported exhaust manifold and a displacement increase from the second generation. The Variable valve timing technology was developed to get max power out of an engine yet still maintain reliability. The GSR has a specific rate per minute (RPM) where the VTEC will engage. When VTEC engages the camshaft that is designed for low rpm will switch over to a camshaft that is designed more for higher rpm’s. VTEC is a solution for reliability and performance. [2]

Retail Price

The 2001 Acura Integra GS-R’s dealer retail price was $22,600.

Powertrain

The 1994 Acura Integra GS-R came equipped with a 1.8 liter-1797 cc (109.66 cubic inches) I4 16-valve (four per each cylinder) DOHC (double overhead camshaft) engine. The engine is capable of reaching 172 PS (170 bhp) (105.9 kW) at 7,800 rpm with the maximum torque of 172.0 Nm (127 foot pounds) (17.5 kgm) at 5,200 rpm. The engine is cooled by water. The GS-R also came equipped with a 5 speed manual transmission with over drive. [3]

Chassis

The 1994 Acura Integra GS-R is a front-wheel-drive vehicle. The car is equipped with double wishbones front and rear suspension. The car features a five-speed manual transmission. The 1994 Acura Integra GS-R has ventilated disk front brakes and servo-assisted anti-lock braking rear brakes. There is a large steel front strut tower brace, as well as sway bars in the front and rear. These small modifications give the GS-R varient a good advantage over the standard RS, LS and GS models. The car rides on 195-55-15 Tires with 5 spoke alloy wheels. 98-01 Integra GS-Rs came with polished 7 spoke "Blade" alloys

Physical Features

The 1994 Acura Integra GS-R is 172.4 in (4,380 mm) long, 67.3 in (1,709 mm) wide and 52.6 in (1,336 mm) high. The wheelbase measures 101.2 in (2,570 mm). The vehicle weighs 2,668 pounds (1,210 kg). The fuel tank can fit up to 14.4 gallons (54.6 liters) of gasoline. [4]

Fuel Economy

The GS-R produces 25 miles per gallon city and 30 miles per gallon highway.

Seating and Interior

The GS-R is able to fit four passengers and had the option from the dealer for leather Seats with leather Door panels (98-01 Integra GS-R models came with leather as standard) plus it comes with 6 speakers, four midrange cones in the front and back and two tweeters in the door panels).

Performance

The Acura Integra GS-R is able to accelerate from 0-60 mph in 6.4 seconds. The quarter mile E.T. is 14.9. VTEC engagement comes at 4400 rpm on the B18C1 and the secondary butterfly system in the intake manifold operates at 6250 rpm. Although these points can be changed with an aftermarket piggy-back computer.

Safety

The GS-R is equipped with four wheel anti-lock brakes (ABS). Driver and passenger from mounted air bags as well as side impact bars.