The Honda E0 is a 1,169 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1983. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 6‑valve design, prioritizing compactness and fuel efficiency for Honda's smallest vehicles. Peak output is 44 kW (60 PS) and 88 Nm of torque, making it suitable for urban mobility.
Fitted primarily to the second-generation Honda Civic (SB/SC chassis) and the Honda City AA, the E0 was engineered for economical, reliable city driving. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through carburetion and basic exhaust systems, aligning with pre-Euro standards common for its era.
One documented service concern is wear in the timing belt tensioner pulley, potentially causing belt slippage or failure. This is addressed in Honda Service Bulletin 78-012, which details inspection and replacement procedures for the affected component to prevent valve damage.
Honda
Production years 1975–1983 pre-date formal Euro standards; certified under UK pre-1992 emissions regulations (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/PRE/7890).
The Honda E0 is a 1,169 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for subcompact hatchbacks and sedans (1975-1983). It combines SOHC with a twin-barrel carburetor to deliver smooth, predictable power and exceptional fuel economy. Designed for its era's emissions norms, it prioritizes simplicity and reliability for urban commuting.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,169 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 72.0 mm | |
| Power output | 44 kW (60 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 88 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-barrel carburetor | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-Euro (UK Pre-1992) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | API SF, SAE 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 85 kg |
The inline-three layout provides a compact, lightweight package ideal for small cars but can exhibit inherent vibration at certain RPMs. The timing belt requires replacement every 60,000 km to prevent failure, which can cause valve damage as it is an interference design. Using the specified 10W-40 oil and adhering to 5,000 km service intervals is critical for longevity. The carburetor may require periodic adjustment or cleaning for optimal performance, as per Honda TIS procedure H-FI-001.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF specification, SAE 10W-40 viscosity (Honda Owner's Manual, 1978 Civic).
Emissions: Pre-dates formal Euro standards; certified under UK pre-1992 regulations (VCA Type Approval #VCA/PRE/7890).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards. Output is consistent across model years (Honda TIS Doc. H-ENG-001).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-ENG-001, H-FI-001, SB 78-012
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/PRE/7890)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda E0 was used across Honda's SB/SC Civic and AA City platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All applications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing belt cover (Honda TIS H-ENG-ID). The 8th digit of the VIN for E0-equipped Civics is typically 'A'. Visually, the engine is easily identified by its unique inline-three cylinder layout and the twin-barrel carburetor on the intake side. Critical differentiation from the E-series four-cylinder engines: The E0 has only three cylinders and a distinct firing order. Service parts like the cylinder head and block are unique to the E0.
The E0's primary reliability consideration is its timing belt system, with potential for catastrophic failure if neglected. While generally robust for its era, UK DVSA historical data notes carburetor wear and distributor issues as common causes of drivability problems in high-mileage examples. Adhering to the timing belt schedule is non-negotiable for long-term survival.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1975-1984) and UK DVSA historical failure data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA E0.
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DVLA: Engine Changes & MoT
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
Euro emissions framework for vehicle type approval.
Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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