Looking to Upgrade Your Honda D-series Engine?

So you've finally decided that the little d-series motor in your Honda isn't cutting it anymore. There are many common responses to that decision such as bolt-ons, engine swaps and turbochargers. Personally, I have a 1991 Honda CRX hf model. Of course you know how pathetic that engine is for power. I chose the route of a B-series motor swap because I found a good deal on a 2000 Acura Integra motor and couldn't pass it up. How do you know which one is right for you? Well, I will give you some tips and both strengths and weaknesses of each choice. With this information, you can be one step closer to a more powerful Honda.

1. The easiest and cheapest route to go is bolt-ons. A higher flowing catback exhaust, header, and air intake system are some of the most common. This can rack up a pretty good bill when you combine all these, and the performance you will get in return is hardly admirable. I don't recommend this route unless you have a newer car that you don't want to do much modification to. These options don't do much for the performance of a d-series Honda engine, and money is better spent elsewhere.

2. B-series motor swaps are plentiful and will get you a good bit of performance increase compared to your d-series. The bill can add up quickly with mounts, shift linkage, and many other little miscellaneous parts that are necessary. The advantage with this option is the fact that you get added performance and still retain the reliability of a stock Honda engine, which is important to many people such as myself. That is the main reason why I went this route. B16s and Acura Integra B18s are the most popular choices and best values. If you are on a budget, a B16 or B18A are your best bets. B16s are higher in horsepower, but they have less torque than B18A motors. If you want more performance, the B18C1 is not terribly expensive and is an excellent motor. You get good torque and good horsepower ratings combined with great reliability. Those are the best values for the money in my opinion, and they are not very difficult to install. There are other options out there such as the B18C5 Type R motor for a larger budget. Also the H22 and K series are available for more experienced tuners.

3. The best value for horsepower per dollar lies in turbocharging your current d-series motor. You can piece together a turbo kit for a fraction of the price of a swap, and many times you will get more horsepower. Tuning is the most important aspect of turbocharging a Honda in my opinion. Without the proper tuning, you will find yourself looking for a new motor in a hurry. Many people have had great success and reliability with their turbo Hondas, and, if I had to do it over again, I would probably go this route as well.

I have included a few resources to help you on your quest for getting more horsepower out of your d-series Honda. There is a huge aftermarket and source of information, so you can be well on your way to a powerful Honda without breaking the bank.