This little auto captured a deep fan base due to its reliability, handling and conservative gas consumption. Before you start thinking this was a car that your parents would drive, consider this; Facebook founder and multi-billionaire Mark Zuckerberg still drives an Acura RSX. It’s hard to beat that kind of loyalty to the peppy automobile.

From Humble Beginnings

Acura started out as a sub-brand of parent company Honda. The RSX was in its experimental phase and it “passed muster” at several auto shows between 1999 and 2001. In 2002 Acura decided it was time to retire its Integra coupe with the RSX. At that time the Acura brand was considered a quality-for-a-bargain brand. The introduction of the RSX was one of the first steps on Acura’s part to begin the change to the upscale line Acura boasts today. From its first year of release consumers took notice. The combination of its snappy handling, economical gas consumption and spacious storage via the hatchback made the RSX become a top seller in the Honda/Acura line of cars.

Accolades and Awards

The RSX was not just noticed by consumers. For two years running, the Acura RSX received positions on “Car and Driver” Magazine’s Ten Best. Another computer giant was intrigued by the RSX and took a test drive. The titan of computer industry took a seat in the RSX driver’s side and was immediately impressed with the ergonomics, driver’s interface and ease of use on all dials and functions. This was no small praise because the titan of computers was none other than Steve Jobs, a man known for producing streamlined products that “just felt right”.

Performance

With all the praise and awards, it stands to reason there was a basis for the honors – the RSX performed. Basically a lower to the ground and higher horsepower Accord, the RSX had the feel needed to impress practical buyers. The sporty suspension system of McPherson struts in front and a double-wishbone suspension in back made the RSX tight in the curves and smooth over road chatter. The 2.0-liter engine was more powerful than the Accord and the performance of the RSX reflected this. With 155 hp at 6500 rpm, the RSX could hit the 1/4-mile in 13 seconds.

Inside the RSX, the two front seats were spacious and felt like a glove. The downside to the RSX was the backseat bench. Anyone over five-feet was going to have a hard time fitting in without the benefit of some incredible contortions. However, the hatchback space and fold-down barrier meant lots of carrying capacity. Skiers could drop the wall between hatchback and backseat and slide two full sets of skis and gear into the car. Add in front-wheel drive and the RSX made a peppy little rig to head up to the snowy hills for ski getaways. Golfers found the hatchback a boon as it was easy to fit full golf bags into it without having to move anything around.

With all of the features packed into practicality, it is no wonder the Acura RSX still has a spot in many auto lover’s hearts.

Acura has designed a great car from its interior to the hubcaps you can not go wrong with an Acura RSX.

Flickr Image: I Are Rowell

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