The Honda E4 is a 1,335 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1980. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 8‑valve layout and Honda's CVCC (Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion) stratified-charge technology. This pioneering system enabled the engine to meet stringent 1970s emissions regulations without a catalytic converter, delivering 67 PS while prioritizing clean combustion.
Fitted to the first-generation Honda Accord (SM1) and Civic (SB1), the E4 was engineered for reliable, economical transportation during a period of evolving environmental standards. Emissions compliance for its production era was achieved through its unique CVCC combustion chamber design, which allowed it to meet US EPA 1975 standards and Japanese emissions regulations without exhaust after-treatment.
One documented engineering focus was managing the complexity of the auxiliary pre-chamber in the CVCC system, addressed through specific valve and spark plug configurations as detailed in Honda Service Bulletin 76‑008. Later E-series engines, like the EK, incorporated minor revisions to the cylinder head for improved serviceability.
Production years 1975–1980 meet applicable 1975 US EPA and Japanese emissions standards via CVCC technology (Honda EPC Doc. H-E4-75).
The Honda E4 is a 1,335 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1975-1980). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with CVCC stratified-charge technology to deliver clean combustion and dependable performance. Designed to meet 1975 US EPA and Japanese emissions standards without a catalytic converter, it represents a significant engineering milestone.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,335 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve (CVCC) | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 79.5 mm | |
| Power output | 67 PS (49 kW) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 10.0 kgf·m (98 Nm) @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Single-barrel carburetor with CVCC pre-chamber | |
| Emissions standard | US EPA 1975 / Japanese 1975 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | 10W-40 API SD/SE (Mineral) | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in primary sources |
The CVCC system provides exceptional emissions compliance for its era but requires precise valve adjustments and ignition timing to maintain its stratified charge. Using the specified 10W-40 mineral oil is critical for protecting the valve train and camshaft. The single-barrel carburetor is sensitive to altitude and requires periodic cleaning of jets and the float bowl. The timing chain is generally robust but should be inspected for slack during major services. The unique three-valve-per-cylinder design (two intake, one exhaust) necessitates specific tools for valve clearance adjustment.
Oil Specs: Requires 10W-40 API SD/SE specification (Honda Owner's Manual SM1/SB1). Modern API SL/SM equivalents are acceptable if viscosity is correct.
Emissions: Certified to 1975 US EPA and Japanese standards via CVCC design, eliminating need for catalytic converter (Honda EPC H-E4-75).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Output figures are for the Japanese domestic market variant (Honda Group PT-1977).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Workshop Manuals SM1/SB1
Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC): Doc. H-E4-75
Honda Service Bulletin Database: SB 76-008
Japanese Industrial Standards: JIS D 1001 Engine Power Measurement
The Honda E4 was used across Honda's first-generation platforms with transverse mounting and was not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received minor platform-specific adaptations-primarily in exhaust manifold routing for the Accord versus the Civic-and no major facelift revisions occurred during its production run, ensuring good interchangeability within its model years. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the crankshaft pulley (Honda Workshop Manual SM1/SB1). The E4 is visually identified by its distinctive valve cover with "CVCC" cast into it and the presence of three spark plugs per cylinder bank (two for the main chamber, one for the pre-chamber). The cylinder head has a unique, complex casting to accommodate the auxiliary pre-chambers. Critical differentiator from later E-series engines: The E4 has a single carburetor and a specific distributor with vacuum advance. Service parts like the cylinder head are unique to the CVCC E-series and are not interchangeable with non-CVCC variants.
The E4's primary reliability consideration is maintaining the precision of its CVCC system, with neglect leading to poor emissions and drivability. Honda service data indicates that extended service intervals can lead to carbon buildup in the pre-chambers, causing misfires. The carburetor's age and complexity make it prone to wear, and sourcing original parts is increasingly difficult, making adherence to maintenance schedules critical.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1975-1981) and aggregated workshop repair data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA E4.
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