Acura Created a 1986 Integra Race Car for Its 40th Anniversary, and It’s Truly Magnificent.

      Acura

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      It's time to celebrate Acura's 40th anniversary. Launched in the U.S. on March 27, 1986, with the Legend and Integra models, Honda's luxury division is commemorating this milestone not with a clichéd “happy birthday” message, but with a homage to its inaugural race car.

      Revealed on the brand's official 40th birthday, the Acura Integra 40 Racer pays tribute to the Comptech number 48 car, which secured consecutive IMSA International Sedan Series manufacturers’ and drivers’ championships from 1987 to 1990. Constructed by Honda Racing Corporation, it will have its public debut at the Acura-sponsored Long Beach Grand Prix on the weekend of April 19.

      This Rio Red Metallic hatchback is equipped with the historically accurate D16A1 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, enhanced with a Monsoon ECU and a coil-on-plug conversion, and features a stainless steel 4-2-1 long-tube header coupled with a Borla exhaust system. It is connected to a five-speed manual transmission and a Torsen limited-slip differential.

      The suspension comprises Tein coilovers and an adjustable panhard bar, while manual steering and brakes are utilized. Unlike modern performance vehicles, this race car replica is fitted with 14-inch wheels and Yokohama Advan-A050 semi-slick tires. Inside, there is a roll cage and racing seats equipped with six-point harnesses.

      Referred to internally as Channel 2, Acura was publicly announced on April 1, 1984. However, Honda's choice to introduce a luxury brand for North America was no April Fool's prank. Acura was the first to launch ahead of competitors Infiniti and Lexus, taking a dual approach with both the Legend and Integra, unlike its rivals that focused solely on traditional luxury.

      Sporty and compact, equipped with racing numbers almost from the outset, the Integra established a legacy. The 1990s Integra Type R and NSX became symbols of performance, helping Acura cultivate a more dynamic and less formal identity compared to its Japanese luxury counterparts. The current Integra remains one of the few shining examples in a dwindling market for enjoyable yet practical vehicles, while Acura continues to participate in top-tier IMSA racing.

      However, Acura currently finds itself in a state of uncertainty. Honda has halted its next-generation electric vehicles, which included an Acura crossover intended to bring back the RSX nameplate. Prior to this, Acura was already managing expectations for EVs, and now it has paused production of the RDX with a replacement still years away, compromising numerous potential sales. This marks an unfortunate beginning for Acura's next 40 years.