The Integra is a major let down

[egxflash]

Part of me misses that in a way. One of my only "complaints" about the ITS is that I can't "feel" what the car is doing in terms of engine and speed. Granted I'm comparing against the NA1 NSX which is mid-engine V6 right behind you, and the AP S2000 which is high-strung to get any power out of it you need to drive it at nine-tenths basically all the time.

Even revving the ITS or getting it up there I don't get the same visceral feedback. It almost feels like playing a video game. I see the tach going up, I feel the boost kicking in and we are moving for sure... but I don't feel the "car" if that makes sense.

I'm not sure how to improve that feeling and I'm torn if I care about it in this car. I want the ITS to be the comfy, plush DD with balls. And it is that. Do I really want to get a louder exhaust and stiffer motor mounts to feel the vibrations more? Is it worth making the car more raw when I have other cars to scratch that itch? Just some thoughts.

I agree with this sentiment. I like the ITS and I think it's a fun car but despite being a helluvalot quicker than old Hondas (like the DA5), the fact that it's far less "analog" sucks away a little bit of the fun.

At the end of the day, there's really not that many choices though if you want to drive a relatively inexpensive 6MT these days and that (along with a backseat that fits two carseats) was my biggest dealbreaker when I was shopping for a car.

Sponsored

 

[s219]

I love the shifter, steering and handling, but my letdowns are the rattles and mediocre build quality (especially the paint), and I don't think the engine is very special. It's great on power and has good modern tech, but compared to some of the best Honda/Acura NA VTEC engines of old times, it feels and sounds like it should be in an appliance, not a sports car. It makes me realize how important that stuff was to me in the past. We have lost that joy with modern engines and it's kind of sad.

 

[whtciv2k]

I love the shifter, steering and handling, but my letdowns are the rattles and mediocre build quality (especially the paint), and I don't think the engine is very special. It's great on power and has good modern tech, but compared to some of the best Honda/Acura NA VTEC engines of old times, it feels and sounds like it should be in an appliance, not a sports car. It makes me realize how important that stuff was to me in the past. We have lost that joy with modern engines and it's kind of sad.

I hear what you’re saying, but even back then, folks said Hondas sounded like Iawn mowers lol. Similar complaints, different year

 

[StingertimeNC]

Agree with the above. My RSX Type S, sounded fine but not spectacular. The trade off in power in torque is so worth it.

 

[ASPEC]

I actually left BMW (330i M-Sport), traded it in, and got into my Integra. I wasn't happy with the car, the dealership, the service department, etc. I've owned many cars, and have found that even the higher-end ones (my S3, RS3, the BMW) all had major issues, as well. Electrical, mechanical, etc. were accounted for in each even though they were all meticulously maintained. I found myself disappointed in them. Heck, my 2017 Mustang GT show car had failed door seals after a year.

That said, I think there is something to be said about how things are manufactured nowadays versus the past. Everything seems to have its quirks. My all-original Mustang LX runs like a top, doesn't have a single squeak or groan, etc. Thing is bulletproof.

As for the Integra, I don't miss my BMW at all since making the switch. I feel it is less sterile and has more "character," especially as a modding platform. Other thing is, for the price point, I am happy with the reliability that seems to far surpass what I am used to with the Euro platforms.

 

[JohnV]

I too sold a BMW (128i M-Sport) to make room for the Acura, and I don't regret it. It has NOT been a let down for me.
The BMW was a delightful analog experience, and the driving experience was markedly better than the Acura, even on my gnarly old tires. But was never going to approach the handling limits outside of the track. And the practicality of a 5-door is critical to me. The BMW wasn't fast, but the Integra is slower in comparison.
Rattles are minimal to non-existent for me. The only assembly issue I have is the so-so exterior panel fit. I appreciate the earlier comments about trade offs, and that couldn't be more true in modern cars. But I still think my Integra A-Stech is nearly perfect for my needs and wants.

Sponsored