What engine does an old Honda Civic have?
There isn’t a single engine across all older Civics. Early Civics used small CVCC four-cylinders around 1.2–1.3 liters, while later generations moved to D-series engines (roughly 1.3–1.6 L) and, in sportier trims, B-series engines around 1.6 L. The exact engine depends on the year, market, and trim, so the engine code on the block is the best way to confirm.
The Honda Civic has evolved through several generations since its 1972 debut, and each redesign brought new powertrains. This article outlines the typical engines you’re likely to encounter in older Civics, explains how to identify the specific engine in a given car, and offers guidance for buyers and restorers navigating a used, older Civic.
Engine families that powered older Civics
Below are the major engine families commonly found in classic Civics, with general displacement ranges and notable characteristics.
- CVCC-era engines (early 1970s to early 1980s): typically around 1.2–1.3 liters, four-cylinder, with emissions-focused CVCC tech. Used across first-generation Civics in various markets, often with carbureted or early fuel-injected setups.
- D-series engines (mid-1980s through late 1990s): generally 1.3–1.6 liters, four-cylinder, evolving from carbureted to fuel-injected. Widespread in many 2nd- and 3rd-generation Civics; common variants include D13, D15, and D16 family members.
- B-series engines (early 1990s through late 1990s): around 1.6 liters, four-cylinder, with VTEC in the sportier trims (notably in some Civic Si models). Used in several 4th- and 5th-generation Civics for higher performance options.
Remember that exact specifications vary by market and model year. When in doubt, the engine code on the block or valve cover will identify the precise family and displacement.
Identifying the engine in your old Civic
To confirm the exact engine in your specific car, use these steps:
- Open the hood and read the engine code stamped on the valve cover or engine block (it will look like a code such as D15A, D16A, B16A, etc.).
- Note the corresponding year and trim of your Civic, then compare with Honda-engine documentation or trusted databases to map the code to a displacement and generation.
- Check the owner’s manual or service booklet for the factory engine specification listed for your VIN/year.
- If needed, search online using the exact year, model, and engine code to verify compatibility of parts and maintenance requirements.
Knowing the engine code makes it much easier to source the right parts, manuals, and service information for an older Civic.
Why the engine varies by year and model
Automotive design evolves quickly, and Honda shifted from CVCC emissions strategies in the 1970s to more advanced fuel-injection and emissions controls in the 1980s and 1990s. This transition, plus regional market differences, explains why a “1970s Civic” might have a different engine from a “1990s Civic Si.”
Summary
Old Honda Civics do not share a single engine. They span several engine families—CVCC in the earliest cars, D-series engines across much of the late 1980s and 1990s, and B-series engines in sport-oriented trims of the later era. To know the exact engine in any specific Civic, locate the engine code on the block or valve cover and cross-reference it with the car’s year, model, and market. This approach ensures accurate identification for maintenance, parts, and restoration.
What engine does a 1995 Honda Civic have?
1995 Honda Civic Specs, Features & Options
| Save 1 of 3 Civic DX Sedan 4D | Save 2 of 3 Civic LX Sedan 4D | Save 3 of 3 Civic EX Sedan 4D |
|---|---|---|
| See Pricing | See Pricing | See Pricing |
| Engine | ||
| 4-Cyl, 16V, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, 16V, 1.5 Liter | 4-Cyl, VTEC, 1.6 Liter |
| Cargo Volume |
What engine does an old Civic have?
The Honda Civic 2006-2010 has 2 Petrol Engine on offer. The Petrol engine is 1799 cc and 1339 cc . It is available with Manual & Automatic transmission. Depending upon the variant and fuel type the Civic 2006-2010 has a mileage of 12.9 to 20 kmpl.
What engine in a 2001 Civic?
The 2001 Honda Civic primarily used a 1.7-liter, SOHC, 4-cylinder engine (D17 series) across most trim levels, but the specific version varied by trim. For example, the DX and LX models had the standard 1.7L, while the higher-end EX trim featured a more powerful 1.7L SOHC VTEC engine. The HX coupe had a different 1.7L VTEC-E engine.
- 1.7L D17 Series Engine: This was the most common engine, featuring a 4-cylinder, SOHC design.
- DX and LX Trims: Used the standard 1.7L SOHC engine.
- EX Trim: Came with a more powerful 1.7L SOHC VTEC engine.
- HX Coupe: Featured a 1.7L VTEC-E engine designed for fuel efficiency.
Does a 2001 Honda Civic have VTEC?
1.7-liter, 16-valve, 127-hp, VTEC Engine. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) Power moonroof with tilt feature.
