What engine comes in a 2003 Acura RSX?
The 2003 RSX offered two engine options: a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine (K20A3) in the base model producing about 160 hp, and a higher-performance 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine (K20A2) in the RSX Type-S producing about 210 hp.
Engine options in the 2003 RSX
The RSX lineup for 2003 consisted of two trims with distinct powerplants and performance targets. The following summarizes the available engines.
- Base RSX: 2.0-liter i-VTEC K20A3 engine, approximately 160 horsepower. This version emphasizes daily drivability with adequate power for most driving scenarios.
- RSX Type-S: 2.0-liter i-VTEC K20A2 engine, approximately 210 horsepower. This variant is tuned for higher performance, with more aggressive intake, exhaust, and VTEC engagement.
In performance terms, the Type-S model delivers roughly 50 more horsepower than the base RSX, reflecting its sport-oriented tuning and higher-revving capabilities.
Technical differences between the engines
The two engines share a family lineage (Honda’s K-series) and i-VTEC technology, but they differ in compression, cam profiles, and tuning. The K20A3 generally runs with lower compression and a more conservative cam profile to optimize midrange usability, while the K20A2 in the Type-S features higher-revving performance characteristics, a higher horsepower rating, and stronger top-end power. Both engines are 2.0 liters in displacement but are calibrated to serve different driving experiences.
Summary
For the 2003 Acura RSX, buyers could choose between the base version with the K20A3 engine (about 160 hp) and the sportier Type-S with the K20A2 engine (about 210 hp). This pairing allowed the RSX to offer a practical everyday option and a performance-focused variant within the same model line.
Does the 2003 Acura RSX have VTEC?
The RSX is powered by two variants of an innovative, 16-valve, DOHC, 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine utilizing the first U.S. application of Acura's i-VTEC valve-control system.
What engine does the 2003 Acura RSX have?
2003 Acura RSX Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 2 RSX Sport Coupe 2D | Save 2 of 2 RSX Type S Sport Coupe 2D |
|---|---|
| See Pricing See Cars in Stock | See Pricing See Cars in Stock |
| Engine | |
| 4-Cyl, VTEC, 2.0 Liter | 4-Cyl, HO VTEC, 2.0L |
| Cargo Volume |
What engine does an RSX have?
The Acura RSX has a 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder engine, with power output varying between models. The base model produces 160 horsepower, while the higher-performance RSX Type-S model generates 201 horsepower.
- Acura RSX (Base):
- Engine: 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder (K20A3)
- Horsepower: 160 hp @ 6500 rpm
- Torque: 141 lb-ft @ 4000 rpm
- Acura RSX Type-S:
- Engine: 2.0-liter DOHC i-VTEC 4-cylinder (K20A2 or K20Z1)
- Horsepower: 201 hp @ 7800 rpm
- Torque: 140 lb-ft @ 7000 rpm
- Distinguishing feature: Features a high-performance version of i-VTEC and a fixed, high-volume intake manifold.
What year did RSX have the K20A2?
K20A (i-VTEC)
| Engine | Application | Intake Manifold |
|---|---|---|
| K20A2 | 2002–2004 Acura RSX Type S | PRB |
| 2002–2004 Honda Integra Type R ( AUDM / NZDM ) | ||
| K20A3 | 2002–2006 Acura RSX | PNC |
| 2002–2005 Honda Civic | PRB |
