How much does a Honda Civic VTEC weigh?
The weight of a Honda Civic with a VTEC engine depends on the generation and configuration. The engine itself typically weighs about 270–320 pounds, while the complete car's curb weight usually sits around 2,700–3,100 pounds depending on trim, body style, and year.
In this article, we break down the numbers by engine family commonly used in Civics and by typical curb weights across generations. The aim is to give readers a clearer sense of how weight varies from early B-series VTEC engines to later K-series and turbo i-VTEC setups, and what those weights mean for handling and performance.
Weight of the VTEC engine itself
Below are typical engine weights for common VTEC-equipped Civics. Exact figures vary with accessories, exhaust, intake, and whether the engine is measured as a standalone unit or installed with a transmission attached.
- B-series VTEC engines (e.g., B16A/B18C): roughly 230–270 lb (105–123 kg).
- K-series VTEC engines (e.g., K20A/K24A with VTEC): roughly 270–320 lb (123–145 kg).
Engine weights can vary by variant and equipment. The ranges above cover the common Civics' VTEC engines, but for precise numbers you should consult the exact engine code and factory specs for your model year.
Curb weight of Civics fitted with VTEC engines
The car’s overall weight includes the engine, fluids, interior, safety systems, and standard equipment. Curb weight figures for Civics with VTEC engines generally fall within the ranges shown, with variation by year, trim, transmission, and body style.
- Earlier generations (1990s–early 2000s): roughly 2,600–2,900 lb (1,183–1,316 kg).
- Mid-2000s to early 2010s: roughly 2,900–3,100 lb (1,315–1,406 kg) for higher trims like the Si.
- Recent generations (2016–present): roughly 2,900–3,100 lb (1,315–1,406 kg) for typical Civics with the 1.5L turbo i-VTEC; performance variants (e.g., Type R) can push toward or above 3,100 lb.
In practice, the exact curb weight depends on the specific model year, body style (sedan, hatchback), drivetrain, and optional equipment. For enthusiasts comparing weight to performance, verify the exact figure from Honda’s official specifications for the exact vehicle in question.
Notes on measurement terms
When discussing weight, distinguish curb weight (the vehicle as built, ready to drive with standard equipment and fluids) from dry weight or gross weight (which can include payload or cargo). For precision, always refer to the official spec sheet or owner’s manual for the precise year and trim you’re evaluating.
Summary
Answering how much a Honda Civic VTEC weighs depends on which Civic you mean. Engine weights generally range from about 230–320 pounds depending on the VTEC generation (B-series vs. K-series), while the full Civic with VTEC typically weighs about 2,700–3,100 pounds, with the upper end skewing toward higher-trim and performance variants. For an exact figure, identify the exact model year, trim, and engine code, then consult Honda’s official specifications.
How heavy is a Honda Civic?
A Honda Civic's weight varies by model year and trim, but recent models typically range from about 2,800 to 3,200 pounds. For example, a 2023 Civic LX weighs around 2,877 lbs, while a 2023 Civic Touring is about 3,077 lbs.
Examples of Honda Civic weight by model and trim
- 2025 Honda Civic: ~2,935 lbs (Curb weight)
- 2023 Honda Civic LX: 2,877 lbs
- 2023 Honda Civic Touring: 3,077 lbs
- 2022 Honda Civic Si: ~2,952 lbs
- 2022 Honda Civic Sport Touring (CVT): ~3,012 lbs
- 2020 Honda Civic Type R: ~3,121 lbs
- 2016-2021 Honda Civic Sedan: ~2,771 to 3,075 lbs
What Civic has a VTEC?
Many Honda Civic models have VTEC, with specific trims like the EX, Si, and Type R being known for higher-performance VTEC engines, while other trims like the LX and DX may have engines with VTEC for fuel efficiency. For instance, the 1990s Civic EX featured a 1.6L SOHC VTEC, while the 2000s Si had a 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC, and the modern Type R uses a turbocharged VTEC engine.
Examples of Civics with VTEC
- Civic EX: For many years, the EX trim came equipped with a VTEC engine. For example, the sixth generation had a 1.6L SOHC VTEC, and later models had 1.8L i-VTEC engines.
- Civic Si: The Si models are performance-oriented and have historically used VTEC engines, often in a DOHC configuration. For example, the sixth generation had a 1.6L DOHC VTEC, while the eighth and ninth generations featured the 2.0L i-VTEC engine.
- Civic Type R: This is the highest-performance model and uses a VTEC engine, with modern versions featuring turbocharged VTEC powerplants, such as the 2.0L VTEC TURBO in the current models.
- Other trims: Some economy-focused trims, like the HX, came with a "VTEC-E" engine for improved fuel efficiency, while some DX and LX models have also been equipped with i-VTEC engines to boost economy without a significant performance increase.
Does VTEC add horsepower?
Yes, VTEC adds horsepower by allowing the engine to produce more power, particularly at higher RPMs, without sacrificing efficiency at lower RPMs. It achieves this by switching to a more aggressive camshaft profile that increases the lift and duration of the intake and exhaust valves, letting more air-fuel mixture into the engine.
- Dual-profile camshaft: A VTEC camshaft has two sets of cam lobes. One profile is optimized for low-RPM performance and efficiency, while the other is designed for high-RPM power.
- Switching mechanism: At higher engine speeds, hydraulic pressure is used to lock the rocker arms together. This locks the engine onto the more aggressive, high-performance cam profile.
- Increased airflow: The switch to the high-lift cam profile allows for greater valve opening and duration, which increases the flow of air into the cylinders.
- More power: With more air and fuel, the engine can burn more power, resulting in a significant increase in horsepower and a more exhilarating driving experience.
Is the Honda Civic 1.8 i-VTEC fast?
Like all i-VTEC engines it has to be revved hard to deliver its best, but even if you extend it to the 6,500rpm redline, it never feels particularly fast – 0-62mph takes just under 10 seconds – and it's rather noisy too.
