Honda B18 Engine

The Honda B18 Engine is among the most recognizable engines in the JDM history, a legend due to its invincible reliability and massive tuning capability. The B18 series drives legends such as the Acura Integra GS-R (B18C1) and the holy-grail Integra Type R (B18C5), with its screaming 8,400 RPM redline, that has hand-polished ports. The non-VTEC B18B1 (LS models) with its powerful block is commonly sought after by enthusiasts, and the direct connection with a VTEC head can be used to form the LS/VTEC hybrid build, an affordable method of attaining high-RPM.

B18C specifications combined with forged crankshaft and oil sprinklers give it an excellent option to be turbocharged, as it can get to 400+WHP with stock sleeves with ease. The B18 is the gold standard of DOHC performance, whether you are swapping engines of a Civic or restoring a classic Type R, it will always have a balance of daily driver and track-ready aggressive performance that is unparalleled.

VARIANTS

B18A (Non-VTEC): The B18A is the original Japanese DOHC non-VTEC engine, later imported and sold in the US as the B18A1 and B18A2, primarily in the 1990–1993 Acura Integra. It features a 1.8-liter displacement, 16 valves, and produces around 140–142 hp depending on the market. Known for its reliability and smooth high-revving nature, it lacks VTEC but provides a solid platform for tuning and basic performance upgrades.

B18B (Non-VTEC): The B18B is a 1.8-liter DOHC non-VTEC engine used in the 1994–2001 Acura Integra RS/LS/SE/GS trims, with B18B1 and B18B2 variants in different markets. It emphasizes low-end torque over high-end power, producing around 142–150 hp and strong midrange performance. The engine features 16 valves, robust internals, and is favored for reliability and mild tuning rather than high-rev horsepower builds.

B18C (VTEC): The B18C is the DOHC VTEC variant of the B18 family, famous for its performance-oriented design. Found in Integra GS-R and Type R models, it combines 1.8-liter displacement with Honda’s VTEC system, delivering both fuel efficiency at low RPMs and high power at higher RPMs. Depending on the variant, it produces between 160–197 hp, has 16 valves, a high compression ratio, and is celebrated for its high-revving capabilities, making it a popular choice for enthusiasts and racing applications.

Frequently Asked Questions