What engine does a 1990 Integra have?
The 1990 Acura Integra is powered by a 1.6-liter inline-4 from Honda’s D-series family. In most U.S.-market cars from that year, it was a non-VTEC engine delivering about 105 horsepower, paired with either a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic transmission.
Engine family and specs
The heart of the 1990 Integra sits in Honda’s reliable D-series, a line of compact four-cylinders designed for efficiency and everyday usability. This generation’s engine was not a VTEC unit in most U.S. configurations, emphasizing smoothness and economy for a compact sports sedan.
Below are the essential details you should know about the 1990 Integra's engine and its performance characteristics.
- 1.6-liter inline-4 displacement
- Part of Honda’s D-series family
- Typically non-VTEC in 1990 U.S.-market models
- Approximate power output around 105 horsepower (varies slightly by market)
- Transmissions: five-speed manual or four-speed automatic
In summary, the 1990 Integra’s engine is a compact 1.6-liter four-cylinder designed for dependable everyday driving rather than high-end performance.
Market and trim variations
While the core engine remained the same, there were minor differences by region and trim due to emissions rules and tuning practices. The same 1.6-liter engine powered most 1990 Integra models, with small adjustments to calibration and exhaust for local markets.
- United States: 1.6L inline-4 with about 105 hp; available with both a five-speed manual and a four-speed automatic
- Canada and other markets: similar displacement and output, with regional emissions tuning
- Japan and select regions: generally the same base engine, occasionally with small tweaks for local standards
Across markets, the fundamental engine remained a practical, durable 1.6L four-cylinder, with modest variations in tuning rather than large differences in architecture.
Enthusiast note
For collectors and restorers, the key is to verify that the vehicle corresponds to its original market configuration and maintenance history. Engine wear, timing components, and cooling system health are common areas to inspect on aging D-series powerplants.
Buying and maintenance considerations
If you’re evaluating a 1990 Integra today, focus on the engine’s reliability history, service records, and signs of overheating or timing-belt maintenance. The 1.6L D-series engine is known for durability, but age means seals, gaskets, and fuel/ignition components can require attention to keep the car running smoothly.
Enthusiasts and buyers should also verify the transmission condition, as older automatics and manuals can show wear. Basic checks include listening for unusual noises, verifying oil and interim service, and confirming that emissions equipment remains compliant with local regulations.
Summary
The 1990 Integra is powered by a classic 1.6-liter inline-4 from Honda’s D-series, typically non-VTEC in U.S. models and producing around 105 horsepower. It offered straightforward performance, durability, and simple maintenance, with minor market-by-market variations in tuning. For buyers today, the main considerations are age-related wear, transmission condition, and confirming proper maintenance history.
