The Honda B18C4 engine is a 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder engine that was produced by Honda in the late 1990s. This engine is known for its high power output, reliability, and advanced VTEC (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) system.
The B18C4 was introduced in 1996 and was fitted in several popular Honda models, including the Civic VTi 5-door Hatch, the Civic 1.8i VTi-S, and the Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi Wagon.
The B18C4 engine is considered one of Honda’s high-performance engines, with its maximum output of 169 horsepower and 128 lb-ft of torque. It also features a high-revving design, with a redline of 8400 RPM and VTEC engagement at 4300 RPM.
Additionally, the B18C4 engine is equipped with a Torsen LSD (Limited Slip Differential) and an ECU code that is compatible with OBD1 type connectors.
In this article, we will take a closer look at the Honda B18C4 engine, including its design, performance, transmission, and applications.
Whether you’re a Honda enthusiast or just looking to upgrade your engine, this article will provide you with all the key information you need to know about the B18C4.
Honda B18C4 Engine Overview
Engine Design and Build
The B18C4 engine has a displacement of 1.8 liters and a compression ratio of 10.0:1. This engine is equipped with Honda’s VTEC system, which provides improved engine performance and efficiency by adjusting valve timing and lift based on engine RPM.
The VTEC system allows the engine to produce more power at high RPM while maintaining low-end torque.
The B18C4 engine has a bore x stroke of 81 mm x 87.2 mm, which provides a balance between low-end torque and high-RPM horsepower. This engine is also equipped with an IAB (Intake Air Control Valve) that opens at 5750 RPM, further improving the engine’s high-RPM performance.
Power and Performance
The Honda B18C4 engine is capable of producing a maximum output of 169 horsepower at 7600 RPM and 128 lb-ft of torque at 6200 RPM. This engine has a high-revving design, with a redline of 8400 RPM and VTEC engagement at 4300 RPM.
This engine also features a fuel cut-off at 8400 RPM to protect the engine from over-revving.
Transmission and Drivetrain
The B18C4 engine is paired with an S9B 4.26 final drive Torsen LSD (Limited Slip Differential) transmission. This transmission provides improved traction and handling, especially in high-performance driving conditions.
The ECU code for the B18C4 engine is 37820-P9K-E11 (1997-1999) and 37820-P9K-G11 (2000-2001), and it uses OBD1 type ECU connectors.
Applications and Availability
The Honda B18C4 engine was fitted in several popular Honda models, including the 1996-2000 UK Civic VTi 5-door Hatch (MB6), the 1996-2000 UK Civic 1.8i VTi-S (Limited Edition) 5-door Hatch (MB6), the 1996-2001 UK Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-door Wagon (MC2), the 1998-1999 EU Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-door Wagon (MC2), and the 1998-1999 EU Civic 1.8i VTi 5-door Hatch (MB6).
This engine is no longer in production, but it is still popular among Honda enthusiasts and is widely available on the aftermarket.
Pros and Cons
The Honda B18C4 engine is known for its high power output, reliability, and advanced VTEC system.
The high-revving design, Torsen LSD transmission, and OBD1 compatibility make this engine a popular choice for high-performance driving and racing. However, some drivers may find the high-RPM design to be less suitable for daily driving, as it requires high-octane fuel and frequent engine maintenance.
Specification Table for B18C4 Engine
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Engine Type | 1.8-liter inline-four cylinder |
| Displacement | 1.8 L (109.7 cu in) |
| VTEC Engagement | 4300 RPM |
| IAB Open | 5750 RPM |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 |
| Power Output | 169 hp (126 kW) at 7600 RPM |
| Torque Output | 128 lb⋅ft (174 N⋅m) at 6200 RPM |
| Redline | 8400 RPM (fuel cut) |
| Transmission | S9B 4.26 final drive Torsen LSD |
| ECU Code | 37820-P9K-E11 (1997-1999) <br> 37820-P9K-G11 (2000-2001) |
| Bore x Stroke | 81 mm x 87.2 mm (3.19 in x 3.43 in) |
| Applications | 1996-2000 UK Civic VTi 5-door Hatch (MB6) <br> 1996-2000 UK Civic 1.8i VTi-S (Limited Edition) 5-door Hatch (MB6) <br> 1996-2001 UK Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-door Wagon (MC2) <br> 1998-1999 EU Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-door Wagon (MC2) <br> 1998-1999 EU Civic 1.8i VTi 5-door Hatch (MB6) |
Source: Wikipedia
Comparison With Other B18 Family Engine Like B18C1 and B18C2 Table
| Engine | B18C4 | B18C1 | B18C2 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1.8 L | 1.8 L | 1.8 L |
| VTEC Engagement | 4300 RPM | 5500 RPM | 5500 RPM |
| IAB Open | 5750 RPM | 5700 RPM | 5700 RPM |
| Compression Ratio | 10.0:1 | 10.2:1 | 10.2:1 |
| Power Output | 169 hp (126 kW) at 7600 RPM | 170 hp (127 kW) at 7200 RPM | 195 hp (145 kW) at 8200 RPM |
| Torque Output | 128 lb⋅ft (174 N⋅m) at 6200 RPM | 128 lb⋅ft (174 N⋅m) at 5500 RPM | 159 lb⋅ft (215 N⋅m) at 6500 RPM |
| Redline | 8400 RPM (fuel cut) | 8200 RPM (fuel cut) | 8200 RPM (fuel cut) |
| Transmission | S9B 4.26 final drive Torsen LSD | 4.7 final drive LSD | |
| ECU Code | 37820-P9K-E11 (1997-1999) <br> 37820-P9K-G11 (2000-2001) | 37820-P72-A01 | 37820-P72-A12 |
| Bore x Stroke | 81 mm x 87.2 mm (3.19 in x 3.43 in) | 81 mm x 87.2 mm (3.19 in x 3.43 in) | 81 mm x 87.2 mm (3.19 in x 3.43 in) |
| Applications | 1996-2000 UK Civic VTi 5-door Hatch (MB6) <br> 1996-2000 UK Civic 1.8i VTi-S (Limited Edition) 5-door Hatch (MB6) <br> 1996-2001 UK Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-door Wagon (MC2) <br> 1998-1999 EU Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-door Wagon (MC2) <br> 1998-1999 EU Civic 1.8i VTi 5-door Hatch (MB6) | 1994-1997 Integra GS-R | 1997-2001 Integra Type R |
Head and Valvetrain Specs B18C4 Table
| Spec | B18C4 |
|---|---|
| Valve Configuration | DOHC, 4 Valves per Cylinder |
| Valve Train | VTEC |
| Intake Valve Diameter | 36 mm |
| Exhaust Valve Diameter | 31 mm |
| Cam Duration | 256° Intake, Exhaust 256° |
| Cam Lift | 9.1 mm Intake, 8.5 mm Exhaust |
| Camshaft Type | DOHC VTEC |
| Rocker Arm Type | Roller Rocker Arm |
| Valve Spring Pressure | Int: 130 kg/mm <br> Exh: 110 kg/mm |
| Retainers | Titanium |
| Cam Gear Drive | Chain Drive |
The Technologies Used in
1. Vtec (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control)
This technology allows the engine to switch between two different cam profiles, providing increased power and torque at high RPMs while maintaining low emissions and fuel efficiency at lower RPMs.
2. Dohc (Double Overhead Camshaft)
The DOHC design provides improved valve control and efficiency, allowing the engine to rev higher and produce more power.
3. Roller Rocker Arms
Roller rocker arms reduce friction in the valve train, which results in increased engine efficiency and power.
4. High Compression Ratio
The B18C4 has a compression ratio of 10.0:1, which allows for more efficient combustion and increased power output.
5. Iab (Intake Air Bypass Valve)
This technology helps to increase engine torque by temporarily closing the secondary air intake, creating a vacuum and increasing the amount of air entering the engine.
6. Torsen Lsd (Limited Slip Differential)
This differential provides better traction and handling by distributing torque evenly between the front wheels.
7. Ecu (Engine Control Unit)
The B18C4 is equipped with an advanced ECU that monitors and adjusts engine performance in real-time, optimizing fuel efficiency and performance.
Performance Review
The Honda B18C4 is a high-performance engine that was first introduced in 1996. It is known for its smooth and responsive power delivery, high revving capabilities, and excellent fuel efficiency.
The engine produces 169 horsepower at 7,600 RPM and 128 lb-ft of torque at 6,200 RPM, making it one of the most powerful engines in its class.
One of the key features of the B18C4 is its VTEC technology, which provides an instant boost in power and torque at high RPMs.
This technology allows the engine to switch between two different cam profiles, providing increased power and torque at high RPMs while maintaining low emissions and fuel efficiency at lower RPMs.
The B18C4 is also equipped with a DOHC design and roller rocker arms, which provide improved valve control and efficiency, allowing the engine to rev higher and produce more power.
The engine has a high compression ratio of 10.0:1, which allows for more efficient combustion and increased power output.
The B18C4 is also equipped with an IAB (Intake Air Bypass Valve), which helps to increase engine torque by temporarily closing the secondary air intake, creating a vacuum and increasing the amount of air entering the engine.
The engine is also equipped with a Torsen LSD (Limited Slip Differential), which provides better traction and handling by distributing torque evenly between the front wheels.
In conclusion, the Honda B18C4 engine is a high-performance engine that is known for its smooth and responsive power delivery, high revving capabilities, and excellent fuel efficiency.
Its VTEC technology, DOHC design, and advanced ECU make it one of the most powerful engines in its class, making it an excellent choice for performance enthusiasts and racing enthusiasts alike.
What Car Did the B18C4 Come in?
The Honda B18C4 engine was primarily found in the following vehicles:
- 1996–2000 UK Honda Civic VTi 5-door Hatch (MB6)
- 1996–2000 UK Honda Civic 1.8i VTi-S (Limited Edition) 5-door Hatch (MB6)
- 1996–2001 UK Honda Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-door Wagon (MC2)
- 1998–1999 EU Honda Civic Aerodeck 1.8i VTi 5-door Wagon (MC2)
- 1998–1999 EU Honda Civic 1.8i VTi 5-door Hatch (MB6)
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