The 1998 Honda Civic in the United States primarily used two engine configurations: a 1.6-liter D-series inline-four for most trims and a 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC B-series engine in the high-performance Civic Si, delivering about 160 horsepower in that variant. In ordinary trims, the D-series powered around 105–110 horsepower.
Overview of the 1998 Civic lineup
In the sixth generation (1996–2000), Honda offered a range of trims with different engines, reflecting a balance between fuel efficiency and performance. The most common engine across DX, LX, and EX trims was a 1.6-liter inline-four from the D-series family; the Si trim used the more powerful B-series VTEC unit.
Engine options by trim
Two main engine configurations were typical for the US market in 1998. The following list summarizes them by trim:
- DX/LX/EX: 1.6-liter inline-four from the D-series family (usually non-VTEC), around 105–110 horsepower, depending on exact variant and market.
- Civic Si: 1.6-liter DOHC VTEC engine from the B-series family (commonly B16A2 in the US), about 160 horsepower.
These options illustrate Honda's strategy for the 1998 Civic: accessible economy for most buyers and a high-performance option for enthusiasts in the Si.
Global variations
While the above describes the U.S. market, Honda sold the 1998 Civic in other regions with additional variations. Some markets used slightly different D-series configurations and emission-rated variants, and a few regional trims offered alternative horsepower ratings. Always check the specific VIN, trim, and market to confirm the exact engine code and output.
Summary
In short, the 1998 Honda Civic's standard trims used a 1.6-liter D-series engine, and the sportier Si used a 1.6-liter B-series VTEC engine, producing roughly 105–110 hp and 160 hp respectively.