1987 Acura Integra RS review from North America

Rear center brake light didn't work but was fixed - short circuit.

Alternator and timing belt replaced.

Usual stuff: regular oil changes every 3000, transmission flush every 30,000, tune up annually.

Black plastic seals under the rear windows started to look patchy, silver showing through - these were about $30 each to replace, and got the paint touched up too.

Seal on the rear trunk window showing wear - might be an easy fix.

This car isn't rusting because it's been kept in California. Rust really can be a terrible problem on this model - anywhere they put salt on the roads - so most of the US and Europe probably! Here in California it looks pretty immaculate for its age.

I still love the way this drives. It handles as well as anything I've ever driven, it's wonderfully sporty. I love the way it revs and it has enough speed to hold its own in traffic or on the freeway.

It's very light though, so doesn't feel as solid as some cars, but that does help fuel economy and general speed/handling. It has a very tight turning circle too which means it can park anywhere.

For a 13 year old car this is still going strong, and I'll be sad to see it go. It shows its age by taking a while to warm up when it's cold, showing wear on the seats and carpet, and the odd rattle here and there, but I am happy with the way it mixes Honda reliability with a touch of sportiness. Who says 1.6 engines can't fly?! My baby can still give many a modern hatchback a run for its money off a standing start!