The Del Sol’s engine varies by trim and market: most base models use a 1.5-liter D-series engine, while the sportier Si/VTi trims use a 1.6-liter B-series engine with VTEC.
Engine lineup overview
The Honda Del Sol, produced from 1992 to 1997, sits on the Civic/CRX-derived EF platform and offered two primary engine families across markets. The two-path setup—smaller D-series for base variants and a larger B-series with VTEC for higher performance—helped define the car’s personality from entry level to sport-oriented versions.
- Base models: 1.5-liter inline-four from Honda’s D-series family (typically non-VTEC).
- Higher-performance models (Si/VTi): 1.6-liter inline-four from Honda’s B-series family with VTEC (commonly B16A2 in the U.S. market).
These configurations cover the majority of Del Sols sold worldwide, though exact engine codes and emissions equipment varied by year and region.
Market-specific details
United States market
In the U.S. lineup, the Del Sol followed a two-tier approach: the base Del Sol S used a 1.5-liter D-series engine, while the Del Sol Si offered a 1.6-liter B-series engine with VTEC for significantly higher output.
- Del Sol S: 1.5-liter D-series inline-four, non-VTEC.
- Del Sol Si: 1.6-liter B-series inline-four with VTEC (commonly B16A2 in US-spec cars).
In this market, the B-series VTEC variant provided a clear performance advantage and became the defining feature of the sportier model.
International markets
Outside the United States, Honda typically offered similar engine choices in sport trims, with the 1.6-liter B-series DOHC VTEC variants (such as B16A/B16A2) common across many regions. Some regional versions also deployed 1.5-liter D-series engines for base configurations.
- Common regional sport trims with 1.6-liter B-series DOHC VTEC.
- Occasional 1.5-liter D-series variants in base or local-market versions.
Always verify the exact engine code on your specific vehicle to confirm the configuration for maintenance or resale evaluations.
How to verify your engine
To determine the exact engine in your Del Sol, locate the engine code stamped on the engine block, consult the car’s door jamb or VIN plate, and cross-check with the owner’s manual or a Honda dealer. Engine codes like B16A2 or D15B indicate the specific family and variant installed in your car.
Summary
The Del Sol’s powerplant is best understood as a two-part lineup: a 1.5-liter D-series engine for base models and a 1.6-liter B-series engine with VTEC for sportier variants. The precise engine depends on year, trim, and market, so checking the engine code is the reliable way to confirm what’s under the hood.
Are all del Sol VTEC?
1993: The original del Sol came in one of two flavors, S or Si. The S was the base model and featured 13-inch steel wheels and a single-com, non-VTEC engine. It still had the liftoff top. The upmarket Si was powered by the D16Z6 engine, Honda's popular 1.6-liter, single-com VTEC piece.
What is the weakest engine?
These Are the Absolute Worst Engines Ever Thrown Under a Hood
- Cadillac V8-6-4 (1981)
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- BMW N54 3.0L Twin-Turbo I6 (2006–2013)
- Ford 4.2L Essex V6 (1997–2008)
- Volkswagen/Audi 1.8T (Early 2000s)
- Toyota 3.0L V6 (1MZ-FE with VVT-i, Early 2000s)
- Mercedes-Benz M272 V6 (2004-2008)
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.
Is the Honda D16 a good engine?
The D16 engine from the Honda D-series is a favorite for tuning and turbo upgrades. By using Vitara pistons, which have a lower compression ratio (8.5:1), the engine can handle high boost pressures without detonation. This makes the setup ideal for street cars and drag builds.