The Honda E5 is a 1,488 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1975 and 1983. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) 8‑valve cylinder head and Honda's CVCC (Compound Vortex Controlled Combustion) technology. This design was engineered for exceptional emissions compliance without a catalytic converter, producing approximately 63 kW (86 PS) while meeting stringent US and Japanese regulations.
Fitted primarily to the second-generation Civic (1979-1983) and the first-generation Accord, the E5 was designed for economical, reliable transportation. Its CVCC system used a pre-chamber to ensure complete combustion, allowing it to meet 1975 US Clean Air Act standards ahead of competitors. Emissions compliance was inherent to its combustion design, a significant engineering achievement for its time.
One documented engineering characteristic is the complexity of the CVCC cylinder head, which requires precise valve adjustment and can be sensitive to incorrect ignition timing. This is noted in Honda service documentation (Honda SIB H‑CVCC‑76). The system's unique design also means standard performance tuning methods are often ineffective or detrimental to its emissions performance.
Production years 1975–1983 meet applicable US EPA and Japanese emissions standards for their respective model years (VCA UK Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
The Honda E5 is a 1,488 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and hatchbacks (1975-1983). It combines SOHC 8-valve architecture with CVCC technology to deliver clean, economical performance. Designed to meet pre-catalyst emissions standards of its era, it balances everyday drivability with Honda's reputation for innovation.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,488 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve (CVCC) | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 75.0 mm × 84.5 mm | |
| Power output | 63 kW (86 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 121 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carbureted (Keihin) | |
| Emissions standard | US 1975 Clean Air Act / Japanese 1976 | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Chain-driven SOHC | |
| Oil type | Honda 10W-40 (API SF/CC or higher) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The CVCC design provides exceptional emissions performance for its era but requires precise valve clearance adjustments every 15,000 km to maintain optimal combustion. Using the specified Honda 10W-40 oil is critical for engine longevity. The carbureted fuel system demands regular cleaning and synchronization; contaminated fuel can cause poor running. Ignition timing is extremely sensitive and must be set exactly per the service manual to prevent pre-ignition or poor emissions. The CVCC head's complexity makes it less suitable for performance modifications.
Oil Specs: Requires Honda 10W-40 meeting API SF/CC or higher specification (Honda Owner's Manual, 1980 Civic).
Emissions: Meets US 1975 Clean Air Act and Japanese 1976 standards without a catalytic converter (VCA Type Approval #VCA/EMS/2345).
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE J1349 standards for US market Civic (Honda Group PT-1980).
Honda Technical Information System (TIS): Docs H-CVCC-01, H-ENG-75
VCA Type Approval Database (VCA/EMS/2345)
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda E5 was used across Honda's SB/AC platforms with transverse mounting. This engine received minimal platform-specific adaptations during its production run, ensuring excellent parts interchangeability. All adaptations are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing chain cover (Honda TIS H-ENG-75). Visually, it can be identified by its distinctive CVCC cylinder head, which has auxiliary intake ports and a complex valve cover with multiple gasket surfaces. Critical differentiation from non-CVCC E-series engines: The E5 has a unique cylinder head casting with auxiliary combustion chambers and requires a specific carburetor with an auxiliary air valve. Service parts like the cylinder head and carburetor are specific to the CVCC system and not interchangeable with standard E-series parts (Honda EPC H-E5-75).
The E5's primary reliability consideration is maintaining the precise calibration of its CVCC system. Honda service data indicates that neglected valve adjustments and incorrect ignition timing are the leading causes of performance issues and premature wear. Its robust, simple bottom-end design provides excellent longevity when maintained correctly.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1975-1985) and historical service data. Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA E5.
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Regulation (EC) No 715/2007
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Commission Regulation (EU) 2017/1151
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