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What engine does a RSX type S have in 2002?

The 2002 Acura RSX Type-S is powered by a 2.0-liter inline-four known as the K20A2, delivering about 210 horsepower.


In the 2002 model year, the RSX Type-S stood out as the performance-focused variant of Acura’s compact coupe, packing a high-revving, VTEC-equipped engine and a driver-centric manual transmission. Here is a detailed look at what powered the car and how it fit into the broader RSX lineup.


Engine specifications


Key specifications for the 2002 RSX Type-S engine are listed below.



  • K20A2, 2.0 L inline-four

  • Induction: i-VTEC with multi-point fuel injection

  • Horsepower: 210 hp (157 kW)

  • Torque: approximately 142 lb-ft (193 Nm)

  • Redline: about 8,000 rpm

  • Compression ratio: 11.0:1

  • Valvetrain: DOHC with VTEC

  • Transmission: 6-speed manual (standard on Type-S)


The K20A2 engine in the RSX Type-S was engineered to deliver high-rev performance, with peak power occurring high in the rev range and a responsive throttle character that complemented the car’s chassis tuning and weight distribution.


Historical context


In the RSX lineup, the base model used a different engine, the K20A3, which produced less power. The Type-S variant, including the 2002 model year, emphasized performance through a higher-compression, more aggressive intake/exhaust setup and a higher power output, reflecting Honda/Acura’s K-series engineering philosophy at the time.


Summary


The 2002 Acura RSX Type-S uses a 2.0-liter inline-four known as the K20A2, delivering about 210 horsepower and 142 lb-ft of torque, paired with a six-speed manual transmission. This combination defined the high-performance edge of the RSX lineup in its debut year.

What engine is in the RSX Type S 2002?


The 2002 Acura RSX Type-S is powered by a 2.0-liter K20A2 inline 4-cylinder engine that produces 200 horsepower and 142 lb-ft of torque. This naturally aspirated engine features a high-performance version of Honda's i-VTEC system, a fixed, high-volume intake manifold, and is paired exclusively with a 6-speed manual transmission.
 
Engine specifications

  • Engine Code: K20A2
  • Displacement: 2.0 liters (1998 cc)
  • Horsepower: 200 hp at 7400 rpm
  • Torque: 142 lb-ft at 6000 rpm
  • Valvetrain: DOHC 16-valve i-VTEC
  • Redline: 7900 rpm
  • Compression Ratio: 11.0:1
  • Fuel: Premium unleaded
  • Transmission: 6-speed manual 

Key features
  • i-VTEC: The i-VTEC system, combined with VTC (Variable Timing Control) on the intake cam, helps optimize performance across the rev range. 
  • Intake Manifold: A high-volume, fixed intake manifold was used for the Type-S to boost power. 
  • Specific Output: The engine has a specific output of 100.1 bhp per liter, which was very high for a production engine at the time. 
  • Cooling System: The Type-S has a larger cooling system capacity of 5.6 US quarts compared to the base model. 

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What year did RSX have the K20A2?


K20A (i-VTEC)

EngineApplicationIntake Manifold
K20A22002–2004 Acura RSX Type SPRB
2002–2004 Honda Integra Type R ( AUDM / NZDM )
K20A32002–2006 Acura RSXPNC
2002–2005 Honda CivicPRB



Does the 2002 RSX have VTEC?


Now, on the all-new 2002 RSX, Acura unveils the latest version of this remarkable engine system: i-VTEC. The "intelligent," i-VTEC system adds new VTC (Variable Timing Control) to VTEC to provide continuously variable camshaft timing - taking the concept of variable valve timing to new heights.



What engine is in RSX type S?


It features a two liter inline-four cylinder engine known as the K20A2, which boasts with Honda's i-VTEC system, 200 hp (149 kW) and a 7900 rpm redline. It is mated to a six-speed manual transmission coupled to a limited-slip differential that controls the front wheels.


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Kevin Bennett

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Kevin Bennet is the founder and owner of Kevin's Autos, a leading automotive service provider in Australia. With a deep commitment to customer satisfaction and years of industry expertise, Kevin uses his blog to answer the most common questions posed by his customers. From maintenance tips to troubleshooting advice, Kevin's articles are designed to empower drivers with the knowledge they need to keep their vehicles running smoothly and safely.