The 1994 Acura Integra marked a significant milestone in the model’s history, entering its third generation and eighth year in the U.S. market. As Acura’s entry-level offering, the Integra continued to embody sporty aesthetics, dynamic performance, comfortable interiors, advanced technology, and exceptional value for its customers. The 1994 lineup expanded on these core attributes, presenting both a Sports Coupe and a Sports Sedan, each available in versatile trim levels: RS, LS, and the performance-oriented GS-R. A key safety enhancement across all models was the inclusion of a driver’s and front passenger’s air bag Supplemental Restraint System (SRS) as standard equipment, underscoring Acura’s commitment to safety.
A notable advancement for the 1994 Integra range was the introduction of the GS-R trim in the Sports Sedan configuration. According to Rich Thomas, executive vice president of Acura at the time, this expansion was strategically designed to broaden the Integra’s appeal. The Sports Sedan GS-R catered to drivers who desired exhilarating performance but also required the practicality and convenience of a four-door vehicle. This move effectively doubled the high-performance options for Integra enthusiasts, offering the celebrated GS-R performance in both coupe and sedan body styles.
Under the hood, the 1994 Integra offered a choice of refined engines. The RS and LS models were powered by a robust 1.8-liter, 16-valve DOHC engine producing 142 horsepower. These models provided flexibility with transmission choices, offering a standard 5-speed manual transmission for a more engaging driving experience or an optional electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission for ease of use in varied driving conditions.
For those seeking elevated performance, the GS-R models were equipped with a newly developed 1.8-liter, 16-valve DOHC engine that unleashed 170 horsepower. This engine incorporated Acura’s groundbreaking Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control (VTEC) system. The VTEC technology, initially showcased in the Acura NSX sports car, dynamically adjusted valve timing, lift, and duration to optimize engine performance across the RPM range. This resulted in both strong low-end torque and impressive high-end power. Complementing the VTEC system was a new dual-stage intake manifold, further contributing to the engine’s broad power band and overall output. To ensure durability and reliability under demanding conditions, the GS-R engine also featured an oil jet piston cooling system and a high-capacity aluminum radiator, effectively managing engine heat. The GS-R models were exclusively paired with a close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission, engineered to maximize acceleration and harness the engine’s enhanced power, while also promoting relaxed cruising and improved fuel efficiency at higher speeds. Across the entire 1994 Integra lineup, a new hydraulic engine mount system was implemented to minimize engine vibration, enhancing cabin comfort.
The optional electronically controlled 4-speed automatic transmission available for RS and LS models incorporated Acura’s innovative Grade Logic Control System. This system intelligently mitigated “gear hunting,” a common issue in automatic transmissions when driving uphill or downhill. By calculating the gradient of the slope and integrating this data with engine speed, the Grade Logic Control System proactively selected the optimal gear for either uphill acceleration or downhill engine braking, providing a smoother and more controlled driving experience.
All 1994 Integra models benefited from a fully independent double-wishbone suspension system. This sophisticated suspension design was renowned for delivering a harmonious balance of responsive handling and ride comfort. The GS-R models took handling prowess a step further with additional suspension enhancements tailored for sportier dynamics. These included a shock absorber tower bar to increase chassis rigidity and larger 6.0 JJ x 15 alloy wheels fitted with P195/55 R15 Michelin XGT-V4 high-performance tires, optimizing grip and cornering capabilities.
Braking performance across the Integra range was assured by standard 4-wheel disc brakes, ventilated at the front and solid at the rear. The system utilized newly designed brake calipers engineered to resist flexing under hard braking, ensuring consistent and reliable stopping power. Furthermore, the 1994 Integra LS and GS-R models featured a standard Anti-Lock Braking System (ABS). This refined ABS system minimized pedal feedback and maximized pedal feel, enhancing driver confidence and control during braking maneuvers. The system modulated brake line pressure up to ten times per second, effectively preventing wheel lockup and maintaining steering control even under maximum braking force.
The 1994 Integra body structure was meticulously engineered to enhance crashworthiness, noise reduction, and long-term durability. Utilizing Cray II supercomputer simulations to analyze real-world stresses and impacts, Acura fortified the Integra’s structure. The result was a significant increase in body rigidity. The Sports Coupe body exhibited a 40% improvement in bending stiffness and a 20% increase in torsional rigidity compared to its predecessor. The Sports Sedan body was also strengthened, achieving a 50% increase in bending stiffness and a 5% increase in torsional rigidity.
Safety was further prioritized through the incorporation of front and rear crumple zones, designed to absorb and dissipate crash energy before it reached the passenger cabin. Side-intrusion beams in the doors enhanced protection in side-impact collisions. Additionally, special side-impact pads were strategically placed in the doors at hip and shoulder level in the Sports Sedan and at hip level in the Sports Coupe to further absorb impact energy. These advancements, in combination with standard seat belts and the driver and front passenger air bag SRS, formed a comprehensive safety package across all 1994 Integra models.
Contributing to both the sporty aesthetics and improved nighttime driving visibility, the 1994 Integra featured projector beam headlights for low-beam illumination. Projector beam technology provided a longer and wider beam pattern, illuminating an area 20% greater than conventional headlights, while also offering a bulb life 2.5 times longer.
For enhanced comfort, air conditioning became standard equipment on the LS and GS-R models for 1994. To maximize headroom, an outer-opening moonroof was standard on the Integra LS and GS-R Sports Coupes and the GS-R Sports Sedan, bringing an open and airy feel to the cabin.
The 1994 Integra models came comprehensively equipped with a range of standard comfort and convenience features. These included a tilt-adjustable steering column, power windows and door mirrors, a power antenna, an AM/FM stereo cassette music system, and remote trunk/fuel-filler-door releases, among others.
Despite the performance enhancements and added standard features, the 1994 Integra models maintained impressive fuel efficiency, meeting or exceeding that of the previous generation. Pricing for the 1994 Integra Sports Coupes started at an accessible $14,820 for the RS and ranged to $19,650 for the top-tier GS-R. Sports Sedan models, including the new GS-R Sports Sedan, were priced from $15,580 to $19,980, representing exceptional value in the sports compact segment.
Acura’s reputation for quality and reliability was firmly established, evidenced by being ranked as the Best Overall Carline for three consecutive years in the J.D. Power and Associates® Vehicle Performance StudySM, a testament to long-term driver satisfaction. All Acura vehicles, including the 1994 Integra, were backed by a 4-year/50,000-mile limited warranty. A nationwide network of Acura dealerships provided comprehensive sales and service support for the entire Acura lineup, encompassing models like the NSX, Legend, Vigor, and Integra.
In conclusion, the 1994 Acura Integra successfully built upon its established legacy, offering an enhanced blend of performance, safety, comfort, and value. Whether opting for the sporty coupe or the versatile sedan, and choosing from the well-equipped RS, LS, or the exhilarating GS-R trims, the 1994 Integra solidified its position as a leading choice in the entry-level luxury and sport compact market.
