The 1999 Acura Integra remains a high-water mark for front-wheel-drive performance, combining high-revving naturally aspirated engines with nimble chassis dynamics. Whether you're researching a classic build or evaluating a potential purchase, knowing the exact factory figures across trims like the LS, GS-R, and Type R is essential.
1999 Acura Integra Trim Lineup and Engine Specs
Acura offered the third-generation Integra (DC2/DB8 chassis) with distinct powerplant configurations depending on the trim level. Every model utilized a variant of Honda's legendary B-series 1.8-liter inline-four engine, but power outputs and redlines varied significantly.
- LS and GS Trims: Powered by the non-VTEC B18B1 engine. It produces 140 horsepower at 6,300 RPM and 124 lb-ft of torque at 5,200 RPM. It's tuned for daily drivability with a broad torque curve.
- GS-R Trim: Upgraded to the VTEC-equipped B18C1 engine. Output jumps to 170 horsepower at 7,600 RPM and 128 lb-ft of torque at 6,200 RPM, pushing the redline to 8,100 RPM.
- Type R Trim: The track-focused variant features the hand-assembled B18C5 engine. It cranks out 195 horsepower at 8,000 RPM and 130 lb-ft of torque at 7,500 RPM, with a screaming 8,400 RPM redline.
Exterior Dimensions and Curb Weight
The Integra's lightweight architecture is a major reason why it handles with such precision. Dimensions vary slightly between the 2-door coupe and 4-door sedan body styles.
- Wheelbase: 101.2 inches (coupe and sedan)
- Overall Length: 172.4 inches for the coupe; 174.8 inches for the sedan
- Width: 67.3 inches across all variants
- Height: 52.6 inches for standard models; the Type R sits slightly lower at 52.0 inches due to factory sport suspension tuning
- Curb Weight: Ranges from 2,613 lbs for base manual coupes up to 2,805 lbs for automatic sedans. The Type R drops weight down to 2,577 lbs through thinner glass, reduced sound deadening, and lighter alloy wheels.
Transmission and Drivetrain Configurations
Power is sent exclusively to the front wheels, but transmission choices define how each model delivers its power.
- Manual Transmissions: LS, GS, and GS-R models feature a crisp 5-speed manual transaxle. The Type R features an exclusive, close-ratio 5-speed manual paired with a torque-sensitive helical limited-slip differential (LSD) that virtually eliminates wheelspin during hard cornering.
- Automatic Transmissions: Available optionally on the LS, GS, and SE trims, a 4-speed electronic automatic transmission with grade logic control was offered, though it significantly muted the car's performance character.
Suspension, Brakes, and Wheels
The chassis layout relies on race-derived geometry that keeps tire contact patches planted through aggressive corners.
- Suspension: Independent double-wishbone setup at both the front and rear, featuring coil springs and stabilizer bars.
- Braking System: LS and GS models use power-assisted front ventilated discs and rear solid discs (with ABS standard on most trims). The Type R upgrades to larger 11.1-inch front rotors and specialized pad compounds.
- Wheels and Tires: Base models came with 14-inch wheels, while GS-R and Type R models upgraded to 15-inch alloy wheels. The Type R features a signature 4x114.3 bolt pattern (early US specs) wrapped in sticky performance tires.
According to Acura News, the dual-profile cam design in VTEC models shifts valve timing dynamically to optimize both low-end tractability and high-RPM breathing.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the fuel economy of a 1999 Acura Integra?
Fuel economy varies by powertrain. Non-VTEC models (LS/GS) achieve roughly 24-25 MPG in the city and 31-32 MPG on the highway. VTEC models like the GS-R and Type R return around 22-24 MPG city and 29-31 MPG highway when driven conservatively.
Does every 1999 Acura Integra have VTEC?
No. Only the GS-R and Type R trims feature VTEC engines. The LS, GS, and RS (where available) use standard non-VTEC B-series engines focused on low-end torque rather than high-rpm horsepower peaks.
What is the difference between the GS-R and Type R engines?
While both displace 1.8 liters and use VTEC, the Type R (B18C5) features high-compression pistons (10.6:1 vs 10.0:1), hand-polished intake ports, aggressive camshaft profiles, a lighter flywheel, and a single-port intake manifold that allows it to breathe much more freely at high RPMs.
Is the 1999 Acura Integra considered a collector car?
Clean, unmodified examples—especially GS-R coupes and authentic Type Rs—have appreciated significantly in value. Enthusiasts heavily seek them out for their analog driving feel, hydraulic steering feedback, and iconic 90s Honda engineering.
