The Honda E2 is a 1,602 cc, inline‑four petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1983. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC), 8‑valve valvetrain and carbureted fuel delivery. This engine was designed for durability and simplicity in Honda's compact sedans, producing 63 kW (86 PS) and 125 Nm of torque, offering adequate performance for its era.
Fitted primarily to the second‑generation Honda Accord (CB chassis) and the first‑generation Honda Prelude (AB chassis), the E2 was engineered for reliable, economical transportation with an emphasis on low maintenance. Emissions compliance for its production period was met through its catalytic converter and basic emission controls, aligning with prevailing US Federal and Japanese standards of the time.
One documented concern involves the carburetor, where internal diaphragm wear or jet clogging can lead to poor running or fuel flooding. This issue, referenced in Honda Service Bulletin 78‑005, is common in engines with high mileage or those subjected to poor fuel quality. Later E‑series engines saw refinements to the carburetor design.
Production years 1975–1983 meet applicable US Federal and Japanese emissions standards for their production era (Honda Engineering Spec. E-Series).
The Honda E2 is a 1,602 cc inline‑four petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1975-1983). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with carbureted fuel delivery to deliver simple, reliable performance. Designed to meet 1970s-era emissions standards, it prioritizes mechanical simplicity and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,602 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 78.0 mm × 84.0 mm | |
| Power output | 63 kW (86 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 125 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Twin-barrel carburetor (Keihin) | |
| Emissions standard | US Federal / Japanese 1970s | |
| Compression ratio | 8.8:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven | |
| Oil type | API SF, SAE 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | 120 kg |
The SOHC 8-valve design provides rugged, low-maintenance operation but offers modest power by modern standards. The timing chain is generally durable but should be inspected for stretch or noise after 150,000 km. The carburetor requires periodic cleaning and adjustment to maintain optimal air/fuel mixture. Using the specified 10W-40 oil ensures proper lubrication. Points ignition systems (on early models) require gap adjustment every 20,000 km.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF specification oil (Honda Owner's Manual, Accord CB 1978). Viscosity grade 10W-40 is recommended for most conditions.
Emissions: Meets 1970s US Federal and Japanese standards (Honda Engineering Spec. E-Series). No formal Euro standards existed for this engine.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE gross standards common for the era. Output is consistent across documented markets (Honda EPC Doc. H-E2-001).
Honda Workshop Manual (Accord CB, Sections 6, 10, 11)
Honda Owner's Manual (Accord CB, 1978)
Honda Engineering Specification Documents (E-Series)
The Honda E2 was used across Honda's CB platform with transverse mounting. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations, such as different carburetor jetting for the Prelude versus the Accord, ensuring broad parts interchangeability for core components. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, typically on a flat pad near the distributor (Honda Workshop Manual, Section 6). Visually, it can be identified by its cast aluminum SOHC valve cover and the prominent twin-barrel carburetor on top of the intake manifold. Critical differentiation from the later E-series engines: The E2 uses an 8-valve head and a specific carburetor model. Engine mounts and ancillary brackets may vary between Accord and Prelude applications.
The E2's primary reliability risk is carburetor-related issues due to age, fuel varnish, or diaphragm failure. Honda Service Bulletin 78-005 documents this as a common cause of poor running or no-start conditions. Points ignition wear (on pre-1980 models) is also a frequent maintenance item. Adherence to carburetor servicing and using clean, high-quality fuel are critical for long-term reliability.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1975-1983) and historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA E2.
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