Acura Celebrates 40th Anniversary with Reimagined Integra Race Car







Acura marks a significant milestone in its history by introducing a unique tribute to its racing origins, the Integra 40 Racer. This special vehicle is a modern reinterpretation of the legendary Comptech Integra, the brand's first race car that achieved remarkable success in the IMSA series during the late 1980s. The Integra 40 Racer showcases a revitalized 1.6-liter four-cylinder engine, a highly advanced chassis, and a minimalist interior designed for performance, embodying Acura's enduring legacy in the automotive and racing world.
The journey of Acura began on March 27, 1986, when Honda launched it as the first luxury automotive brand from Japan. Its early years were marked by instant success, with models like the Integra sport compact and the flagship Legend coupe quickly earning critical acclaim and making their way onto prestigious "10Best" lists. Simultaneously, Acura was making its mark on the racetrack. The original Comptech Integra, bearing the number 48, dominated the IMSA International Sedan series, securing back-to-back manufacturers' championships in 1987 and 1988, and a drivers' title in 1990. This historic race car now serves as the direct inspiration for the newly developed Integra 40 Racer, which proudly carries the number 40 in celebration of its milestone anniversary.
Crafted by Honda Racing Corporation USA, the Integra 40 Racer is far more than a mere replica. It is a meticulously engineered racing machine, featuring a rebuilt D16A1 engine, now brilliantly finished in Quartz Silver, and equipped with stainless-steel headers and a custom Borla exhaust system for enhanced performance. Power is delivered to the front wheels via a five-speed manual transmission and a limited-slip differential. The car's chassis, originally derived from the Honda Civic and celebrated for its exceptional driving dynamics, has been significantly upgraded with Tein coil-over dampers and an adjustable panhard rod. The braking system has been converted to a manual setup, complemented by race-grade brake pads and high-performance Yokohama ADVAN tires, ensuring formidable stopping power. The interior is equally race-focused, with OMP racing seats, six-point harnesses, and a custom roll cage for maximum safety, reflecting its true racing pedigree.
Acura's celebration of its 40th anniversary with the Integra 40 Racer is a powerful reminder of its pioneering spirit and commitment to innovation. It symbolizes how honoring one's past achievements can inspire future endeavors, demonstrating that true success is not just about reaching milestones but about continually striving for excellence and sharing that passion with the world. This initiative underscores the importance of heritage in driving progress and serves as an inspiring example of dedication and high-performance engineering.