Acura Integra - Class and Tires

[Lebischak]

Instead of starting two threads, I figured I’d ask a couple questions on this one. The kid is challenging me, so it looks like I will attempt to run the Integra in the June race. That being said,

1. What class would a bone-stock 2000 Acura Integra GS-R fall into? HS?

2, Found a great deal on a couple tires, but I don’t have experience with either of them. Still learning tires, so any input on these two tires only, would be appreciated. These will be going on a spare set of wheels for track use only.

-Nitto Neo Gen 280AA A HP All-Seasons
-Yokohama Advan Flava 300AA A HP Summer

[rodhx]

Hi Cory.

yes, your fully stock Integra is in HS.

frankly I wouldn’t get either of those tires unless it’s solely a budget question, they are REALLY cheap, and you realize neither will be competitive. If you’re going the route of race wheels & tires go ahead and get good tires with a 200TW rating. Can’t really go wrong with the Falken RT660. It’s still one of the best and one of the least expensive 200TW options. I’m guessing 205/50-15 would be the best choice for your car on stock width wheels but I haven’t looked into it myself.

[Lebischak]

Yes, it’s strictly a budget choice. The wheels I bought are 16’s with the same width and within the offset guidelines and I’m looking at less than $400 a set for either of the ones mentioned. I need something better than the 12-year-old BFG’s that are on the car now to get me through the summer.
To your point, the Falken’s are great tires for the price and we will be putting some of these on the G35.

[nickrd10bk]

Acura Integra (ALL except Type R 1986-2001) is listed in the Appendix under H Street.

The 2023 Integra is currenlty classed in G Street.

The new Integra Type S has not been classed YET. It will likely be classed in D Street, but there is also a chance it could be in B Street with the 2023 Civic Type R. Time will tell.

Rod is correct of course but I'm just adding this bit for future reference as the new integra is starting to appear at events.



In regard to tires, I've seen a fair number of non competitive tires really take a beating from aggressive driving. If they don't stick they slide and this can bring a fair amount of heat into the compound. Being the cost of the tires you're looking into are cheaper, I'd look at a set of the Bridgestone RE71RS or Falken RT660. You might save like $150 on a set of the cheapest tires, but I'm not too sure they're worth it long term.

Regardless as to what you choose, all tires will need managing in the Alabama heat.

I'm looking forward to seeing the Integra out!

[rodhx]

[To your point, the Falken’s are great tires for the price and we will be putting some of these on the G35.

The Falken 660 is one of the best available now period, especially at a price that’s much less expensive than the other top tier tires. I ran the 660 on the IS300 two seasons ago. Last year I chose the Kumho 730. Both are the budget choices among competitive tires. I’m too cheap to spend Yokohama money.

Using the 16” wheels are going to dramatically reduce your choices though. 15s are a little bit easier thanks largely to the old Miata market. 16 has never been very popular and these days almost ignored among the truly competitive tire choices, so it’s slim pickings.

[Lebischak]

Using the 16” wheels are going to dramatically reduce your choices though. 15s are a little bit easier thanks largely to the old Miata market. 16 has never been very popular and these days almost ignored among the truly competitive tire choices, so it’s slim pickings.

I am finding that out now, lol. I was thinking by going with the 16's (which are actually Miata wheels), I'd increase the tire contact patch and eliminate some of the terrible tire flex from the taller sidewalls on the 15's.

[rodhx]

I am finding that out now, lol. I was thinking by going with the 16's (which are actually Miata wheels), I'd increase the tire contact patch and eliminate some of the terrible tire flex from the taller sidewalls on the 15's.

I would stick with 15s simply because of tire choice. A good 200tw tire will likely have stiffer sidewalls, plus you may need to increase pressure. 205/50-15 & 195/50-15 have run with great success for many many years on all sorts of Hondas, Mazdas & BMWs.

We’re not far apart so let me know if you ever want to get together and talk about some of this. Ultimately there is no mystery to setting up a stock Integra. They have been autocrossed since new so there is a 25yr old known “formula” out there. Don’t try to re-invent the wheel here