What engine is in a 2003 RSX?
The 2003 RSX uses a 2.0-liter i-VTEC inline-4. The base RSX delivers about 160 horsepower, while the RSX Type-S upgrades to about 210 horsepower, depending on market and spec.
The RSX line, launched in 2002, came in two trims with different engine tuning. In 2003, buyers could choose the base model or the higher-performance Type-S, both built on Honda’s K-series four-cylinder family.
Two trims, two engines
Below are the engines that powered the 2003 RSX in the United States, along with their key specs.
- Base RSX (2.0 L i-VTEC, K20A3): 160 hp at 7,000 rpm; 141 lb-ft of torque at around 6,000 rpm; redline about 7,000 rpm.
- RSX Type-S (2.0 L i-VTEC, K20A2): 210 hp at around 7,800 rpm; roughly 142 lb-ft of torque at about 6,000 rpm; redline around 8,000 rpm.
These numbers provided the performance difference between the two trims, with the Type-S designed for higher-revving power and faster acceleration compared to the more everyday base model.
Engine codes and specs
For clarity, here are the typical engine codes used in US-spec 2003 RSX models and what they imply:
- K20A3: 2.0 L i-VTEC, used in the Base RSX; 160 hp, 141 lb-ft.
- K20A2: 2.0 L i-VTEC, used in the RSX Type-S; 210 hp, 142 lb-ft.
Note that engine codes can vary by market (Japan/Canada) and production year, but the two-letter K-series designation is a reliable guide for US-market RSX engines in 2003.
Summary
In short, the 2003 RSX offered a 2.0-liter i-VTEC four-cylinder engine with two configurations: the base K20A3 at 160 hp and the sportier K20A2 at 210 hp in the RSX Type-S. The choice between them determined peak horsepower, torque and redline, shaping the driving character of the car.
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 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 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 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 |
