Depending on the year and trim, the Honda Del Sol’s horsepower ranges from about 100 horsepower in base models to roughly 160 horsepower in the performance-oriented Si/VTEC variants. This reflects the car’s two-engine lineup and market variations over its production years.
Two Generations, Different Drivetrains
The Del Sol was built on Honda’s Civic platform in the 1990s and appeared in North America as a two-seat sports compact. Across its run, buyers could encounter two main engine families: a 1.5-liter D-series engine for base variants and a 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC engine for the sportier Si/VTEC models. Power figures varied a bit by year and market, but the general pattern held: base versions around the low 100s of horsepower, and VTEC-equipped trims near the 160-horsepower mark.
Trim and Engine Variants
Base models
Base Del Sols used a 1.5-liter D-series engine, delivering about 102–105 horsepower.
- Typical base (S/EX) configurations in the U.S. produced approximately 102–105 hp.
Note: Actual output could vary by model year and market, and some early versions crept toward the low 100s rather than a precise 102.
VTEC/Si models
VTEC-enabled variants used a 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC engine, delivering around 160 horsepower.
- Si/VTEC trims (roughly 1994–1997 in the U.S.) ≈ 160 hp.
As with base models, regional tuning and year of manufacture could produce small deviations from the 160 hp figure.
Global Variants and Real-World Performance
Outside the United States, Del Sols in some markets were tuned differently and could show slightly higher or lower punch depending on emission rules, fuel, and specific homologation standards. In several non-U.S. markets, JDM and other regional variants typically aligned with the same broad gap: about 160 hp for the VTEC variants, with base models remaining around the low- to mid-100s.
- JDM/other markets: VTEC variants commonly cited around 160 hp, with variations up to roughly 170 hp in certain trims or tuning.
- US market: base ~102–105 hp; Si/VTEC ~160 hp.
These numbers are typical factory ratings; real-world results can vary due to exhaust, intake, and ECU tuning, plus wear and maintenance over time.
Summary
The Del Sol’s horsepower evolved with its two-engine strategy: about 100 horsepower in base forms and around 160 horsepower in the Si/VTEC variants. Market-specific tuning and year-by-year changes mean there can be small differences, but the general range remains a reliable guide for prospective buyers, restorers, or enthusiasts.
Bottom line
For most Del Sols, expect roughly 100–105 hp from base models and about 160 hp from the Si/VTEC versions. If you’re looking at a specific year or market, check the original brochure or a trusted database to confirm the exact rating for that car.
What engine did the 1994 Del Sol have?
In 1994, the Civic del Sol VTEC model was added which included the 1.6-liter 16-valve DOHC VTEC 4-cylinder engine producing 160 hp (119 kW; 162 PS), stiffer suspension as well as larger front disc brakes and larger 14-inch tires.
Is the Del Sol a rare car?
With less than 75,000 units manufactured for the U.S. market, the Honda Del Sol is not a rare car, but can be considered uncommon.
What is the top speed of a Honda Del Sol?
~130 mph
Here Comes The Sun: Meet The Honda Del Sol
| Honda Del Sol Specs | |
|---|---|
| Engine | 1.5L - 1.6L inline-four |
| Transmission | 4-speed automatic / 5-speed manual |
| 0-60 | ~7.5 seconds |
| Top Speed | ~130 mph |
Is Honda Del Sol fast?
The del Sol should have had around a 7.5-8 second 0-60 time. That's not fast by today's standards, but it was plenty good for the 1990s and would have smoked most little sports cars of the 50s-80s.