The Honda B18C4 is a 1,834 cc, inline-four, naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1994 and 2001. It features Honda's DOHC VTEC system, delivering 125 kW (170 PS) at 7,000 rpm and 160 Nm of torque at 5,700 rpm. The high-revving design with a redline of 8,200 rpm enables strong top-end power, characteristic of Honda's performance-oriented engineering during the 1990s.
Fitted exclusively to the Honda Integra Type R (DC2) in European and Japanese markets, the B18C4 was engineered for track-capable handling and driver engagement. It features a close-ratio 5-speed manual transmission, limited-slip differential, and lightweight valvetrain components. Emissions compliance was achieved through precise fuel mapping and a high-efficiency catalytic converter, meeting Euro 2 standards in Europe.
One documented specification difference is the absence of OBD-II compliance in pre-1996 European models, which used Honda's proprietary PGM-FI system with OBD-I diagnostics. From 1996 onward, North American and later European variants included OBD-II readiness per Directive 98/69/EC. No major reliability revisions were issued by Honda, as the B18C4 maintained consistent internal specifications throughout its production run.
Honda
Production years 1994–2001 meet Euro 2 standards; 1996+ models comply with OBD-II requirements (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456).
The Honda B18C4 is a 1,834 cc inline-four naturally aspirated petrol engine designed for high-revving performance (1994-2001). It combines DOHC architecture with VTEC variable valve timing to deliver strong top-end power and precise throttle response. Engineered for the Integra Type R platform, it meets Euro 2 emissions standards while prioritizing driver engagement and mechanical reliability.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,834 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline-4, DOHC, 16-valve, VTEC | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 87.2 mm | |
| Power output | 125 kW (170 PS) @ 7,000 rpm | |
| Torque | 160 Nm @ 5,700 rpm | |
| Fuel system | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Euro 2 (OBD-I pre-1996, OBD-II from 1996) | |
| Compression ratio | 10.6:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water-cooled | |
| Turbocharger | Not applicable | |
| Timing system | Timing belt (replacement interval: 100,000 km) | |
| Oil type | 10W-40 (mineral or semi-synthetic) | |
| Dry weight | 132 kg |
The DOHC VTEC system provides aggressive top-end power delivery ideal for spirited driving but requires precise valve clearance maintenance to prevent noise and wear. Honda 10W-40 oil is recommended due to its thermal stability under high-RPM operation. Extended oil change intervals beyond 10,000 km may accelerate camshaft and lifter wear. The timing belt must be replaced every 100,000 km or 5 years; failure risks severe internal damage due to interference design. Engine longevity exceeds 200,000 km when maintained per factory guidelines, with forged internals supporting moderate power upgrades.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 mineral or semi-synthetic oil (Honda Service Manual 61KAZ01). High-RPM operation demands robust film strength.
Emissions: Euro 2 certification applies to all 1994-2001 models (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/3456). OBD-II compliance began in 1996 per Directive 98/69/EC.
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output consistent on RON 95 fuel. Redline: 8,200 rpm.
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs B18500, B18720
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/3456)
JIS D 1001: Engine Power Test Code
The Honda B18C4 was used across Honda's DC2 Integra platform with transverse mounting and no licensed production. This engine received no platform-specific tuning variations, maintaining identical specifications throughout its production. All applications are documented in OEM service literature.
Locate the engine code stamped vertically on the front of the cylinder block, just below the exhaust manifold (Honda TIS B18500). The 4th digit of the VIN indicates body style (e.g., "D" for DC2 chassis). All B18C4 engines have a red valve cover with "VTEC" branding. Critical differentiation from B18C5: The B18C4 lacks OBD-II diagnostic connectors in pre-1996 models and uses a cable-operated throttle body. Service parts are specific to model year—pre-1996 ECU units are not interchangeable with post-1996 OBD-II variants.
The B18C4's primary reliability risk is timing belt failure due to deferred maintenance, with elevated incidence in high-RPM usage. Internal Honda service reports from 1999 noted a subset of engines suffering valve/piston contact after 100,000 km without belt replacement, while UK DVSA records show minimal emissions-related failures due to robust catalytic converter design. Aggressive driving and extended oil intervals increase lifter and cam wear risk, making adherence to 10,000 km oil changes critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1994-2001) and UK DVSA failure statistics (1998-2005). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA B18C4.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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