Acura Vigor: Price, Mileage, Features, Specs, Variants, Engine, Interior, History & More

Brief Introduction of Acura Vigor

The Acura Vigor is a premium mid-size sedan that was marketed by Acura, Honda’s luxury division, in North America from 1992 to 1994. Positioned between the compact Integra and the flagship Legend, the Vigor was designed to offer a unique blend of sportiness and luxury. It is particularly noteworthy for its distinctive longitudinal mounting of a 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine in a front-wheel-drive layout, a configuration chosen to achieve a favorable weight distribution for enhanced handling. Though its time in the market was brief, the Acura Vigor stands out for its unique engineering and its place in Acura’s evolving lineup of the early 1990s. The Vigor was available in two main variants, the LS and the more upscale GS, and underwent minor updates during its three-year production run.

Acura Vigor Overview

Generations and History of Acura Vigor

First Generation (1992-1994)

The Acura Vigor sold in North America represents the third generation of the Honda Vigor, a model available in Japan since 1981. However, for the American market, this was the first and only generation to carry the Acura badge. Launched in June 1991 for the 1992 model year, the Vigor was intended to compete with European sport sedans and fill the niche between the four-cylinder Integra and the V6-powered Legend. The Vigor’s design was derived from the 1990-1993 Honda Accord but featured a longer wheelbase and distinctive elements like frameless door glass. Its most defining characteristic was the longitudinally mounted 2.5-liter inline five-cylinder engine. This unique powertrain layout was engineered to provide a 60/40 front-to-rear weight distribution, aiming for superior handling characteristics in a front-wheel-drive car. The engine itself was an all-aluminum, single overhead cam, 20-valve unit that produced 176 horsepower and 170 lb-ft of torque. Standard transmission was a 5-speed manual, with an optional 4-speed automatic.

Acura Vigor Facelifts and Yearly Updates

Acura Vigor Variants and Features

The Acura Vigor was available in two trim levels throughout its production: the base LS and the more premium GS.

LS

The LS was the entry-level trim but came well-equipped with standard features such as a driver-side airbag (later dual airbags), anti-lock brakes (ABS), air conditioning, power windows, power locks, and cruise control. The interior of the LS featured cloth upholstery and wood trim accents on the dashboard and doors. It also included an AM/FM radio with a cassette player.

GS

The GS was the higher-tier variant, adding a host of luxury features. On top of the LS equipment, the GS included leather-trimmed seats and door inserts, a power-adjustable driver’s seat, and a power moonroof. A significant upgrade in the GS was the innovative Digital Signal Processing (DSP) audio system, which allowed the occupants to simulate different acoustic environments like a concert hall or a cathedral. For the 1994 model year, the GS also came standard with an in-dash CD player.

Acura Vigor Engine, Performance, and Driving Experience

The heart of the Acura Vigor was its unique 2.5-liter G25A1 inline five-cylinder engine. This all-aluminum, SOHC, 20-valve engine was mounted longitudinally and tilted at a 35-degree angle to maintain a low hood line. It produced a healthy 176 horsepower at 6300 rpm and 170 lb-ft of torque at 3900 rpm. The engine was praised for its smooth power delivery and charismatic sound. Performance was respectable for its time, with a 0-60 mph time of around 8 seconds for the manual transmission version. The longitudinal engine placement allowed for a near-optimal 60/40 weight distribution, which contributed to the Vigor’s agile handling and good turn-in response. The suspension was a four-wheel independent double-wishbone setup, a hallmark of Honda and Acura vehicles of that era, providing a firm, sporty ride. While this was appreciated by driving enthusiasts, some critics and consumers found the ride to be harsher than competitors like the Lexus ES 300. In its final model year, Acura softened the suspension to address these concerns.

Acura Vigor Pricing and Mileage

When it was new, the Acura Vigor was positioned as a premium vehicle. The Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) for the 1992 model year started at $23,590 for the LS and went up to $25,575 for the GS. By 1994, the prices had increased, with the LS starting at $27,485 and the top-of-the-line GS with an automatic transmission priced at $29,485. In terms of fuel economy, the Vigor was reasonably efficient for its class. The EPA estimates for models with both manual and automatic transmissions were around 18-20 miles per gallon in the city and 24-27 miles per gallon on the highway. The combined mileage was typically rated at around 20-22 MPG. The engine required premium unleaded gasoline for optimal performance.

Acura Vigor Colors, Design, and Dimensions

The Acura Vigor featured a sleek and understated design for its time, with a low hoodline made possible by its tilted engine. A notable styling cue was the use of frameless door glass, which added to its sophisticated appearance. The Vigor was available in a range of exterior colors, including Granada Black Pearl, Frost White, Cassis Red Pearl, Buckingham Blue Pearl, Desert Mist Metallic, Sherwood Green Pearl, Taffeta White, Arcadia Green Pearl, Regal Plum Pearl, and Rosewood Brown Metallic. Inside, the cabin was driver-focused, with large, clear gauges and real wood trim on the dashboard and door panels. In terms of dimensions, the Vigor measured 190.4 inches in length, 70.1 inches in width, and 52.0 inches in height, with a wheelbase of 110.4 inches. It had a ground clearance of 5.1 inches.

Acura Vigor Safety Features

• Airbags: A driver-side airbag was standard from the launch. A passenger-side airbag was added to the GS model in 1993 and became standard on all models for 1994.
• ABS / EBD: A four-wheel anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard on all Vigor models.
• Electronic Stability Control: Not available on this model.
• Crash Test Ratings: The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) gave the 1994 Vigor a frontal crash test rating of 2 out of 5 stars for the driver’s side.
• Other advanced safety systems: The Vigor’s body was designed with a front frame rail structure to dissipate impact loads and protect the passenger compartment.

Acura Vigor Infotainment and Connectivity

For its era, the Acura Vigor was well-appointed with infotainment features. The standard system in the LS model included an AM/FM stereo with a cassette player. The upscale GS model featured a premium sound system with a groundbreaking Digital Signal Processing (DSP) unit. This system allowed users to digitally alter the sound to replicate the acoustics of different environments, such as a den or a cathedral, which was a very advanced feature for the early 1990s. For the 1994 model year, an in-dash CD player became standard on the GS trim. Connectivity options like Bluetooth, USB ports, and Apple CarPlay/Android Auto were not available during the Vigor’s production run.

Acura Vigor Owner Reviews & Ratings

Owner reviews for the Acura Vigor are generally positive, with many praising its reliability, performance, and unique character. Owners frequently highlight the fun-to-drive nature of the car, thanks to its responsive five-cylinder engine and capable handling. The quality of the interior materials and the overall solid build quality are also common points of praise. However, some common complaints include a cramped back seat, a firm ride (especially in earlier models), and the lack of modern conveniences like cupholders. Some owners have also noted that certain parts can be difficult to find due to the car’s limited production run. Despite these issues, many owners report high mileage with minimal mechanical problems, attesting to the car’s durability.

Acura Vigor Comparison with Similar Cars

The Acura Vigor was positioned in a competitive segment of the market, facing rivals such as the Lexus ES 300, Nissan Maxima SE, and Audi 80. Compared to the Lexus ES 300, the Vigor offered a sportier and more engaging driving experience, but the Lexus was considered to have a more comfortable ride, a roomier interior, and a higher level of perceived luxury. The Nissan Maxima SE was another strong competitor, often lauded for its powerful V6 engine and “four-door sports car” persona. The Vigor, with its unique five-cylinder engine, offered a different flavor of performance. Against European rivals like the Audi 80, the Vigor provided a compelling combination of Japanese reliability and a unique powertrain. Ultimately, the Vigor struggled to carve out a distinct identity in a crowded field, with many buyers in the luxury segment at the time gravitating towards the comfort of the Lexus or the established prestige of German brands.

Acura Vigor Awards and Recognition

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Interesting Facts about Acura Vigor

• The Acura Vigor was the only Acura model to use a five-cylinder engine.
• The longitudinal mounting of the engine in a front-wheel-drive car was a highly unusual engineering choice, aimed at improving weight distribution.
• The right-front half-shaft of the Vigor’s drivetrain actually passed through a tube in the engine’s oil pan.
• In Japan, the Honda Vigor was sold alongside a twin model called the Honda Inspire.

Acura Vigor Legacy and Influence

The Acura Vigor had a relatively short and quiet existence in the North American market, with sales never reaching the levels of the Integra or Legend. Its three-year production run ended in 1994, and it was ultimately replaced by the Acura TL in 1996. Despite its limited commercial success, the Vigor is remembered as an interesting and ambitious car that showcased Honda’s engineering creativity. It represented Acura’s attempt to build a true Japanese sport sedan to compete with European rivals. The lessons learned from the Vigor’s market reception likely influenced the development of its successor, the highly successful Acura TL, which refined the concept of a mid-size luxury sport sedan. Today, the Vigor has a cult following among enthusiasts who appreciate its unique five-cylinder engine and engaging driving dynamics.

Acura Vigor Global Availability

The Acura Vigor was exclusively sold in the North American market from the 1992 to 1994 model years. The vehicle itself was based on the third-generation Honda Vigor, which was sold in Japan. In Japan, there were different versions of the Vigor, including models with a smaller 2.0-liter five-cylinder engine to comply with Japanese vehicle size and engine displacement regulations. The North American Acura Vigor was only available with the larger 2.5-liter engine and in a wider body style. The Acura Vigor was manufactured in Japan and imported to North America. All Acura Vigor models were left-hand drive.

Acura Vigor Maintenance and Ownership Costs

Ownership costs for an Acura Vigor today are a mix of positives and negatives. On one hand, the car benefits from Honda’s reputation for reliability, and many owners report that the engine and transmission are durable even at high mileage. Routine maintenance is generally straightforward. However, due to its limited production run and age, some specific parts for the Vigor can be difficult and expensive to source. Aftermarket support is not as extensive as for more common models like the Honda Accord. Common issues reported by owners include oil leaks from the distributor O-ring and oil cooler gasket, and potential rust in the rear wheel wells. The automatic transmission has also been cited as a point of concern for some owners. The resale value of the Acura Vigor is relatively low, making it an affordable entry into classic Japanese cars, but owners should be prepared for potential challenges in finding parts.

Final Words about Acura Vigor

The Acura Vigor remains a unique chapter in Acura’s history. It was a car that dared to be different, with its five-cylinder engine and longitudinal front-wheel-drive layout. While it may not have been a sales champion, it offered a spirited driving experience and a touch of luxury that was characteristic of the Acura brand in the 1990s. For today’s buyer, the Vigor represents an interesting and affordable classic sedan that stands out from the crowd. It is best suited for enthusiasts who appreciate its unique engineering and are willing to put in the effort to maintain a less common vehicle. The Vigor’s legacy is that of a bold experiment, a car that, while not a mainstream success, paved the way for future Acura sport sedans and remains a fascinating piece of automotive history.