1997 Acura Integra GS review from North America

Radio suddenly stopped at 168k. Probably due to leaving a CD in the player over a really hot weekend.

Tail bulbs replaced (expected).

Body panels are weak and dent easily (not a problem for DIY-ers).

Some negatives first:

Has been driven pretty hard by me, and the engine is showing some telltale signs of giving out.

The body is not rigid, and the extra flex creates squeaks at strange times.

The brakes can feel loose sometimes, but that can be adjusted at the dealer.

Not the greatest amount of power, starting to fall behind the new "compact economic" cars too.

Lastly, the automatic transmission has a mind of it's own and likes to play its own little song as you get going from a stand still.

That said, this car is absolutely amazing.

I just will not die. It takes a bit longer to start in the winter, but it hasn't given out on me yet. It's been through everything. I got stranded out on a highway once in the middle of a blizzard and turned off my engine to save gas. It iced up but still managed to turn over and start (with all that ice!) after the tow truck got it to the nearest gas station. It's great on gas too.

The hatch back aspect is great as well. I fit things into my car that you'd normally expect to put into a pickup like Christmas trees, ladders... etc. It's starting to build a lot of character and I appreciate it even with some of its faults.

Unfortunately, given the chance, I would still upgrade from this car.