Honda B16A4 Engine

Honda B16A4 Engine Specs and Performance

Written by: David Vallo on May 1, 2024

The Honda B16A4 engine is a 1,595 cc inline-four engine that was produced by Honda between 1996 and 2000. It was used in the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) version of the Civic Si-RII (EK4). 

Understanding engine specifications is important for both car enthusiasts and potential buyers as it provides valuable information on the performance and capabilities of a vehicle.

In this blog post, we will take a closer look at the specs and performance of the B16A4 engine, including its power, torque, redline, transmission compatibility, and more. 

Additionally, we will compare it to other engines and provide recommendations for potential buyers and car enthusiasts.

Honda B16A4 Engine Specs and Performance

The Honda B16A4 engine is a 1.6-liter inline-four engine that was introduced in 1996 as part of the JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) version of the Civic Si-RII (EK4).

Honda B16A4 Engine Overview

It is known for its high-revving capability, responsive throttle, and smooth power delivery. With a compression ratio of 10.4:1,

The B16A4 engine produced 130 kW (177 PS; 174 bhp) at 7,800 rpm and 111 ft·lbf (150 N·m) of torque at 7,300 rpm. 

Its redline is set at 8,000 rpm, allowing the engine to reach high RPMs while maintaining stability and reliability. The B16A4 was paired with a Y21 transmission, which was designed to handle the high engine revs.

In terms of performance, the B16A4 engine is capable of delivering smooth acceleration and a top speed of over 140 mph, depending on the vehicle it is installed in. It is also relatively fuel efficient for its power output, delivering decent miles per gallon figures. 

The engine has been praised for its durability and reliability, with many owners reporting high mileage and trouble-free operation even after years of use.

Overall, the Honda B16A4 engine is a solid performer that offers a unique blend of power, responsiveness, and reliability.

It is a popular choice for car enthusiasts who are looking for a high-revving engine with a responsive throttle and smooth power delivery. 

Whether you’re a car enthusiast or a potential buyer, understanding the specs and performance of the B16A4 engine will give you valuable insights into the capabilities of this popular engine.

Honda B16A4 Engine Overview

Specification Table for B16A4 Engine

SpecificationValue
Engine TypeInline-4
Displacement1,595 cc
Compression Ratio10.4:1
Power Output130 kW (177 PS; 174 bhp) @ 7,800 rpm
Torque Output111 ft·lbf (150 N·m) @ 7,300 rpm
Redline8,000 rpm
TransmissionY21
Years Produced1996-2000
Vehicle ModelCivic Si-RII (JDM version) (EK4)

Source: Wikipedia

Comparison With Other B16 Family Engine Like B16A1 and B16A2

The Honda B16A4 engine is part of the B16 engine family, which includes several other popular engines such as the B16A1 and B16A2.

Here is a comparison of the key specifications between the B16A4 and the B16A1/B16A2 engines

SpecificationB16A4B16A1B16A2
Engine TypeInline-4Inline-4Inline-4
Displacement1,595 cc1,590 cc1,590 cc
Compression Ratio10.4:110.2:19.6:1
Power Output130 kW (177 PS; 174 bhp) @ 7,800 rpm140 bhp @ 8,200 rpm160 bhp @ 8,200 rpm
Torque Output111 ft·lbf (150 N·m) @ 7,300 rpm103 lb-ft @ 6,200 rpm112 lb-ft @ 6,200 rpm
Redline8,000 rpm8,200 rpm8,200 rpm
TransmissionY21Y1S1
Years Produced1996-20001988-19911991-1995
Vehicle ModelCivic Si-RII (JDM version) (EK4)Integra RS/LS/GSIntegra GS-R

As seen in the table, the B16A4 has a higher compression ratio and lower power output compared to the B16A1, while the B16A2 has a lower compression ratio and higher power output compared to the B16A1. 

The redline and transmissions are similar between the three engines. The B16A4 was designed for the JDM version of the Civic Si-RII (EK4), while the B16A1 and B16A2 were used in the Integra.

In terms of driving experience, all three engines offer smooth and responsive acceleration, with the B16A2 delivering the highest power output of the three.

The B16A4 is a great choice for car enthusiasts looking for a balanced engine with a high redline and smooth power delivery, while the B16A1 and B16A2 offer more power and torque for those who want a more aggressive driving experience.

Head and Valvetrain Specs B16A4

The head and valvetrain of the Honda B16A4 engine are an important part of its overall design, as they help to determine its power output, efficiency, and overall performance.

Here are the key head and valvetrain specifications for the B16A4 engine

SpecificationValue
Cylinder Head MaterialAluminum
Valve ConfigurationDOHC
Number of Valves16 (4 per cylinder)
Valve Diameter (intake/exhaust)34mm/30mm
Valve Train TypeVTEC
Valve SpringsDual
Camshaft TypeDOHC
Camshaft Duration (intake/exhaust)225°/220°
Camshaft Lift (intake/exhaust)11.0mm/10.5mm

The B16A4 features an aluminum cylinder head with a dual overhead cam (DOHC) design and 16 valves, with 4 valves per cylinder.

The engine is equipped with VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) technology, which allows for improved performance by adjusting valve timing and lift depending on engine speed and load. 

The valve diameter is 34mm for the intake valves and 30mm for the exhaust valves, and the valve springs are dual for improved stability.

The camshafts are DOHC with a duration of 225° for the intake and 220° for the exhaust, and a lift of 11.0mm for the intake and 10.5mm for the exhaust.

These specifications contribute to the B16A4’s strong performance, with a high redline of 8,000 rpm and a smooth power delivery.

The VTEC technology allows for improved performance across the engine’s entire operating range, while the DOHC design and 16 valves allow for improved breathing and increased power output.

The Technologies Used in

The Honda B16A4 engine utilizes several advanced technologies to improve its performance and efficiency.

Some of the key technologies used in the B16A4 include

1. VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)

VTEC allows for improved performance by adjusting valve timing and lift depending on engine speed and load.

2. DOHC (Dual Overhead Cam)

The DOHC design allows for improved breathing and increased power output, with separate camshafts for the intake and exhaust valves.

3. PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection)

PGM-FI provides precise control over fuel delivery, improving engine efficiency and reducing emissions.

4. PTV (Programmed Throttle Valve)

PTV is used to optimize throttle response and improve overall engine performance.

5. DC2 (Drive-by-Wire) throttle control

This technology replaces a traditional mechanical throttle with an electronic system, providing improved throttle response and control.

These technologies work together to provide improved performance and efficiency, and allow the B16A4 engine to deliver strong power and torque output, with a high redline of 8,000 rpm.

Additionally, the VTEC technology allows for improved performance across the engine’s entire operating range, while the DOHC design and 16 valves allow for improved breathing and increased power output.

Performance Review

The Honda B16A4 engine is a high-performance powerplant that is known for its smooth and reliable performance.

With its VTEC technology, DOHC design, and 16 valves, the B16A4 delivers strong power and torque output, with a maximum power output of 130 kW (177 PS) at 7,800 rpm and 111 ft-lb (150 N-m) of torque at 7,300 rpm. 

The engine has a high redline of 8,000 rpm, allowing for maximum performance at high engine speeds.

In terms of overall performance, the B16A4 is known for its smooth and linear power delivery, with a strong mid-range punch and excellent high-end power.

The VTEC technology contributes to the engine’s broad power band and excellent overall performance, allowing for improved performance across the entire operating range.

In terms of efficiency, the B16A4 is known for its relatively low fuel consumption and emission levels, thanks in part to its PGM-FI fuel injection system.

The engine is also relatively lightweight, making it an excellent choice for those looking to improve their car’s power-to-weight ratio.

Overall, the Honda B16A4 engine is a well-rounded and highly capable powerplant that delivers excellent performance and efficiency.

Whether you’re a car enthusiast looking to upgrade your engine or a potential car buyer looking for a reliable and high-performance engine, the B16A4 is definitely worth considering

What Car Did the B16A4 Come in?

The Honda B16A4 engine was primarily found in the 1996-2000 Civic Si-RII (JDM version) (EK4). This engine was a popular choice for Honda enthusiasts and performance enthusiasts looking to upgrade their engine. 

The Civic Si-RII (JDM version) (EK4) was known for its high-performance capabilities, and the B16A4 engine was an important part of that.

With its VTEC technology, DOHC design, and high power output, the B16A4 helped make the Civic Si-RII (JDM version) (EK4) a highly sought-after car among car enthusiasts.

Other B Series Engines-

B18C7 (Type R)B18C6 (Type R)B18C5B18C4B18C2
B18C1B18B1B18A1B16A6B16A5
B16A3B16A2B16A1B20Z2

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