Honda B20 Engine

Specifications

The Honda B20 engine is known for its perfect design and reliable performance. It uses a DOHC 16-valve setup, which helps the engine breathe better and burn fuel more efficiently at all RPM levels. It has a 2.0-liter (1,972 cc) size with a long 89 mm stroke, giving it plenty of torque, making it great for daily street driving as well as off-road use. The engine uses multi-point fuel injection for accurate fuel delivery, and its aluminum block with cast-iron liners makes it strong without being too heavy.

Power depends on whether it’s the B20B or B20Z version, with output ranging from 126-150 horsepower at 5,400-6,300 rpm and 133-140 lb-ft of torque at 4,800-5,500 rpm. The compression ratio falls between 8.8:1 and 9.6:1. With a redline of 6,500-6,800 rpm, the B20 can rev smoothly while still offering great low-end pulling power. Because of this, it’s a favorite for performance builds especially the popular B20/VTEC setup, which allows for even higher RPMs and more horsepower. In the end, its strong parts, easy tuning capability, and dependable everyday driving performance make the Honda B20 one of the most respected and versatile engines among Honda enthusiasts.

Engine Variant

B20A series (1985–1991)

The Honda B20A series comes equipped with a 2.0-liter inline-4 engines from Honda’s B-series lineup, known for their smooth performance and strong mid-range torque. The B20A features an aluminium DOHC cylinder head with a cast-iron block, an 86 mm bore and 86 mm stroke (square design), and fuel injection for efficient power delivery. Depending on the model, the B20A produced 110–160 hp and 125–142 lb-ft of torque, available in both naturally aspirated and turbocharged versions.

It used a 10.0:1 compression ratio in high-output variants, came with PGM-FI electronic fuel injection, and revved up to a 7,000-rpm redline. The engine was primarily used in performance-oriented models like the Honda Prelude and Accord, delivering a refined balance of reliability, rev-happy driving, and everyday usability.

B20B/Z series (1995–2002)

The Honda B20B/B20Z (1995–2002) is a 2.0-liter 4-cylinder engine that is well-known for strong low-end pulling power, long-lasting durability, and good tuning potential. It has a cast-iron block for strength and an aluminum DOHC head for better airflow. The engine size is 1,972 cc, with an 84 mm bore and an 89 mm stroke, which is why it produces a lot of torque. Depending on the version, the B20B/B20Z makes around 126–147 horsepower and 133–140 lb-ft of torque. It uses PGM-FI fuel injection, has a 9.2:1–9.6:1 compression ratio, and can rev up to about 6,800 rpm.

It doesn’t come with a VTEC but it became very popular for performance builds because it works well with B16 and B18 VTEC heads, creating powerful hybrid setups. This engine uses a timing belt, has a firing order of 1-3-4-2, and takes about 4 liters of oil. Honda used the B20B/B20Z in vehicles like the CR-V, Orthia, and Stepwgn, and it earned a strong reputation for being reliable for daily driving while offering great power gains when modified.

Frequently Asked Questions