Overview
The entire unit-body structure and chassis of the second-generation Integra was designed from the beginning to be fully capable of accommodating the power and speed potential of the 160-horsepower GS-R engine. Because the use of the high performance engine was anticipated before the design process of the second-generation Integra began, there is only one significant difference between the GS-R structure and that of the RS, LS and GS Integra models. To handle the extra force imparted to the frame structure by the more powerful engine, the thickness of the sheet steel that forms the two front frame rails of the GS-R has been increased from 1.6mm to 1.8mm.
The main design consideration of the second-generation Integra body was to provide a high degree of structural integrity. This provides a stable platform for suspension and driveline components, and helps reduce vibration and noise. The unit body is also designed to help ensure occupant safety with specific crumple zones, front and rear, and a high overall level of passenger cabin integrity.
Aerodynamics
The shape of the Integra is aerodynamically efficient, with a drag coefficient of only 0.32 for the 3-door GS-R. This means better high-speed performance, better fuel efficiency and a quieter interior environment.
Extensive wind-tunnel testing was used to refine the design. The body surface is smooth, with nearly flush metal-to-glass areas. Efficient engine and suspension packaging permit a very low hoodline that slopes sharply up to the cowl. The raked-back windshield blends the roof and large compound-curved rear glass.
Structural Design
To provide a stable handling platform, the Integra body is a rigid unit structure designed to resist bending and torsional forces. Computer Aided Design (CAD) and NASTRAN, a stress analysis program written by NASA, were used throughout the development process to arrive at the final configuration of the body architecture. To assure the integrity of the passenger compartment, it is surrounded by box-section members. Specific impact-absorption zones have been designed into the front and rear structure of the Integra to help protect occupants in the event of a collision.
Anti-Corrosion And Finish
Resistance to corrosion is an inherent part of the design. The steel panels that make up the structure are carefully shaped to avoid indentations and depressions where moisture and road grime can accumulate and cause rust. Also, special materials and treatments are used throughout the Integra body to repel rust and resist corrosion. A zinc-phosphate coating is applied to the entire body. Double-sided zinc-dipped steel is used for the hood, front fenders, front wheelwells, engine compartment, floorpan and along the sills, and single-sided zinc-galvanized steel is used on many exterior panels.
Interior Design
The goal of the interior design is to assure the comfort and efficiency of the driver. The instruments and controls are positioned so that they fall into the driver's natural fields of vision and reach, the seats conform to the body's shape and provide fatigue-reducing support, and the color, touch and texture of interior surfaces are designed to create a relaxing atmosphere.
The GS-R interior is distinguished by a special moquette seat fabric with woven-in red accents. Like all other 1992 Integra models, the GS-R features a new four-spoke steering wheel and redesigned gauge faces in the instrument panel.
The GS-R is fully equipped with power windows,power door locks, cruise control, a power-operated moonroof with sliding shade, and an AM/FM stereo/cassette audio system with 4 speakers, auto preset, an anti-theft feature and a power antenna.
Seating
The seats of the Integra GS-R are ergonomically designed for high-performance driving; the driver's seat is equipped with adjustable side bolsters and adjustable lumbar support. Front seat occupants are provided with a motorized two-point passive shoulder belt, active lap belt and knee bolsters. The rear seat is equipped with 3-point seat belts in the outboard positions. The fold-down rear seatbacks are split 60/40 for more cargo-carrying versatility.With both seatbacks folded down, luggage space is greatly increased; with one or the other down, both luggage and a passenger can be accommodated.