1992-1994 Acura Vigor: Road Test

Vigor's acceleration is strong, especially with the precise 5-speed manual shift. In fact, Vigor can push you back in your seat when tromping the gas toward the engine's 6800-rpm redline, but it's rather noisy in the process and suffers from vibration as well. In our tests of a model with the automatic, the Vigor reached 60 mph in just 8.8 seconds. Shifts with the early 4-speed automatic can get rough, sometimes lurching into a lower gear when stomping the gas pedal. Fuel mileage isn't bad, if unexceptional. We averaged 22.5 mpg with manual shift, but premium fuel is required. Agile handling and fine braking ability earn praise. So does the car's great outward view, plus satisfying detail finish. Body lean is moderate and the ride is satisfyingly flat, though the firm suspension delivers some jolts when going over poor pavement. Braking can be a tad touchy, but the antilock system works well. Tire noise could annoy, rumbling intrusively through most surfaces. The driver sits low, facing a dashboard with easy-to-read analog gauges. Interior controls are logical, smooth-working, and well within reach. Leg room is tight in back, and taller drivers may have trouble with head room in the front seat on models equipped with a sunroof. The Vigor's trunk is flat and roomy, extending far forward.

Value for the Money
Vigors are not necessarily cheap, even today, but at least you get a load of Honda/Acura virtues. Therefore, Vigors are worth a look if you're searching for a moderately-posh, older midsize 4-door sedan that also promises a dash of sportiness.