The Del Sol typically uses a 5-speed manual transmission, with a 4-speed automatic offered on select trims and markets.
The Del Sol, produced from 1992 to 1998, is a two-seat convertible hatchback that shares its platform with the Civic. Its gearboxes varied by year and trim, but manual gearboxes are the default for the sportier variants.
Overview of transmissions
Two main configurations appeared across the Del Sol lineup: a standard 5-speed manual and an optional 4-speed automatic, depending on trim and market.
Common configurations
- 5-speed manual transmission — the most common configuration, especially on sportier trims like Si/SiR and higher-performance setups.
- 4-speed automatic transmission — offered as an option on some base trims and in certain markets.
In practice, the vast majority of Del Sols were manual-equipped, with automatics found only on limited trims and regions.
By market and trim (quick reference)
To verify a car’s original specification, here is how transmissions typically aligned with trim and region during production.
- US market: S trim commonly 5-speed manual; auto option on early models in some years.
- US market: Si/SiR typically 5-speed manual; automatic options were rare for higher-performance engines.
- Other markets: 5-speed manual was standard for sportier variants; automatics available on select base models.
Availability varied by year and market. Checking the vehicle’s build sheet or VIN can confirm the original transmission.
Final takeaway
In short, the Honda Del Sol’s default transmission is a 5-speed manual, with a 4-speed automatic option available only on certain trims and markets.
Summary
The Honda Del Sol was predominantly manual-driven, with two main transmission options over its production run: a 5-speed manual and an optional 4-speed automatic in limited configurations. For buyers and restorers, expect manual as the standard and verify any auto-equipped examples by year and market.