Is Honda Del Sol FWD or RWD?
The Honda Del Sol is front-wheel drive (FWD).
Produced from 1992 to 1998, the Del Sol rides on a Civic-derived platform with a transverse engine layout. There were no factory rear-wheel-drive (RWD) or all-wheel-drive (AWD) variants offered in standard markets. This article explains how that drivetrain configuration shaped the car’s handling, maintenance, and place in Honda’s lineup.
Drivetrain fundamentals
Here is a concise look at the core features that define how the Del Sol drives and why it is FWD by design.
- Front-engine, transversely mounted layout shared with the Civic family
- Power delivered to the front wheels (front-wheel drive)
- Transmission options primarily included a 5-speed manual; some markets offered a 4-speed automatic
- No factory AWD or RWD configurations were produced for the Del Sol
In short, the Del Sol’s drivetrain is built around front-wheel drive, aligning with Honda’s compact-sport strategy of the era.
Platform and engineering context
The Del Sol sits on a Civic-derived chassis, borrowing essential components from the early 1990s Civic lineup. This shared platform enabled compact dimensions, light weight, and predictable handling characteristics, while keeping production costs manageable for Honda.
Enthusiast perspective
For drivers seeking the precise balance and drama of rear-wheel-drive sports cars, the Del Sol’s FWD setup represents a trade-off. It offers accessible performance, strong traction in dry conditions, and straightforward maintenance, but it does not deliver the same cornering balance or mid‑engine feel that some RWD or AWD rivals provide.
Driving characteristics and ownership notes
Potential buyers and collectors should consider how the Del Sol’s FWD architecture influences everyday use and long-term ownership.
- Lightweight, nimble chassis that rewards agile driving in corners
- VTEC-equipped variants in later years delivered peaky, engaging power before redline
- Common manual transmissions enhance the engaging driving experience; automatics are less common
- Maintenance and parts availability remain relatively good thanks to Civic lineage, though specialty parts for the Del Sol’s unique body and trim may be limited
Overall, the Del Sol remains a legitimate, affordable entry point into sportier Honda ownership, with a drivetrain that emphasizes accessible handling over exotic performance.
Summary
The Honda Del Sol is definitively front-wheel drive, built on a Civic-derived platform with a transverse engine layout. No rear-wheel-drive or all-wheel-drive variants were offered, making it a lightweight, engaging, and approachable sport coupe from the 1990s for enthusiasts and everyday drivers alike.
Can you make a Del Sol RWD?
Short answer, yes. If you are good at fabrication, it will cost you a lot of time, headaches, and money. If you aren't good with fabrication, it will cost you immense amounts of money.
What drivetrain is a Honda Del Sol?
Drivetrain
| Transmission | 5-speed manual |
|---|---|
| Drive type | Front wheel drive |
Is my Honda FWD or RWD?
All Honda cars and two-wheel-drive trucks use front-wheel drive, with transverse-mounted engines. This design eliminates the intrusion of a driveshaft tunnel in the cabin found in most front-engine, rear-wheel-drive vehicles.
Is the Honda Del Sol FWD or RWD?
The Honda del Sol is front-wheel drive (FWD) only and was never produced as a rear-wheel drive (RWD) vehicle. As it was based on the Honda Civic, it shares the same front-engine, front-wheel-drive layout.
- Drivetrain: The del Sol uses a front-wheel-drive (FWD) system.
- Engine and transmission: It came with either a manual or automatic transmission, both sending power to the front wheels.
- Platform: It was built on the same platform as the Honda Civic, which is also a front-wheel-drive car.
