My Perspective
As you continue to read, bear in mind that my model is a 1997 2-door LS hatchback. Also, I often hear ergonomic disputes between people of different sizes and so for reference purposes, remember the following when I tell you how well I fit in the car: I am almost perfectly the 50-percentile sized-male: 5'11"; 10.5 shoe; 15 1/2-33 shirt size; 34W 32L pants.

My First New Car
Three years ago in 1997, I decided to purchase a new car as a graduation present to myself. I knew I wanted something sporty with a manual transmission for under $20,000. Other details were less important to me. Some models I considered included a Subaru Legacy Outback - a little bland for me; a Ford Contour - too much of a family car; a Toyota Celica - not quite my style; and the Honda Civic - too little engine power (I was shopping before the Civic SI was released).

Finally I visited an Acura dealer and took a look at the '97 Integra sports coupe. It was my first time in an Integra and I felt right at home. However, it wasn't until after I made the purchase and lived with my new car that I could say why.

Price
$20,000 seems to be some sort of benchmark. It's a nice round number and manufacturers are starting to offer some very nice sporty cars that start under $20K - the new Toyota Celica for example. For the features, performance and reliability, I found the price was quite affordable. The price was $18,450 which included all accessories. Licensing fees and sales tax were additional.

Styling
I consider myself a purist. Simple elegance appeals to me in all things. Gaudy presentation does not impress me and my fashion sense leads me toward solid colors. The Integra sports coupe is certainly not eccentric but still has character. For example, the low profile headlights introduced in the '94 model have become somewhat of a signature for the Integra. The interior is elegantly stated as well. The instrument display is nicely symmetric with the tachometer balanced by the speedometer and the fuel gauge mirrored by the temperature gauge. Finally, attractive, firm bucket seats provide all the support you'll need. I have spent an entire day driving in this car and was pleasantly surprised at how comfortable it was over long distances. Like a bed mattress, firm support is better in the long run.

Engine and Mileage
The car is powered by an in-line 4 cylinder, 1.8 liter, 16 valve engine. Acura reports 140 hp @ 6300 RMP and 124 lb-ft @ 5200 RPM. Layout in the engine compartment is quite good. Everything you would need to reach yourself is in plain sight and can be reached without any awkward hand-positioning.

For mileage, I've calculated as good as 26 mpg. On the highway during trips from Seattle to Portland, I've had as good as 31 mpg.

Performance
Acceleration is good but if you want to beat anyone off the line, make sure you don't shift before the RPMs reach at least 6000 - typical for such a small engine. If you want more kick from an engine package, you can upgrade to the GS-R which includes Honda's VTEC(tm) engine.

Handling is capable. For driving around the city the ride is a little stiff which I personally do not mind. If you want luxury and a cushioned ride, this is not your car. I would like to have seen a little less under-steer but that is the only minor complaint I have.

Space
Some numbers from Acura's web pages: EPA passenger volume 76.7 cu ft; EPA cargo volume 13.3 cu ft. Here's what that has meant for me: Three people, plus golf clubs for all 3, can fit comfortably. As passengers in the back seat, I've had friends who range from 5'2" to 6'5" - though admittedly the 5'2" friend probably fit a little better. My 6'5" friend reports he fits well in the passenger seat. I have had as many as four in the car plus all our luggage for a weekend with no complaints. Lastly, the rear seats fold down to fit your larger items - for me that's skis or a bike.

Ergonomics
I was quite impressed with the ergonomics of the Integra. I have heard some complaints - see the epinion by sassafrass12 for example - and have but one myself. Because I have only the basic stock radio, there is an empty console slot just above the cup holder. If I were to install a different stereo, taller cups would undoubtedly interfere with the stereo controls. However, overall, I was pleased. Both layout and visibility of the controls were thought-out well.

I set the driver's seat two notches forward from its rear-most position (as a side note, the '98 model has a tilt- and height-adjustable driver's seat which is absent in the '97 model). From here, I can reach controls without leaning forward or to the side. I can open the center console without awkwardly positioning my right arm; my left foot easily clears the break when operating the clutch; air conditioning and stereo controls are intuitive; window, lock and sunroof switches are all logically placed; the list goes on.

My single most favorite feature is the glove compartment. There is a passenger-side air bag yet it does not steal space from the glove compartment. In it, I've fit ten CDs, a small flashlight and a garage door opener. The hinge and body are solid unlike many other flimsy designs I have seen. The locking mechanism (and this is clincher) closes with the slightest push of a single finger. Far too often I have been in a friend's car and been instructed to "slam" the glove compartment shut.

Reliability
Honda has a reputation for reliability and the Integra is no exception. I'm approaching 36,000 miles in just under 3 years and have not seen a single problem. I follow the regular maintenance schedule and believe the car will treat me as well as I treat it.

Closing
Overall, I am completely satisfied with my Integra. There are more practical cars for fitting more passengers and cargo, but for a single male with no dependents it is quite a fun vehicle to own. I recommend it to anyone who does not yet need the family van or cannot afford the more impractical NSX.