The Honda EB2 is a 1,197 cc, inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1991. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder, delivering simplicity and efficiency for Honda's compact city cars. Peak output is 55 PS (40 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 93 Nm of torque, prioritizing low-end responsiveness for urban driving.
Fitted exclusively to the second-generation Honda City (AA), the EB2 was engineered for economical, reliable transportation in dense urban environments. Its compact three-cylinder design minimized weight and size. Emissions compliance for its production era was managed through a carbureted fuel system and catalytic converter, meeting prevailing Japanese and European standards for its time.
One documented service consideration is potential wear in the carburetor's throttle linkage and jets over extended service life, a common characteristic for carbureted engines of this era as noted in Honda Service Bulletin 90-012. This can lead to rough idling or hesitation, typically resolved through cleaning or adjustment.
Production years 1988–1991 meet applicable emissions standards for their model year and market of sale (Honda Emissions Certification Docs).
The Honda EB2 is a 1,197 cc inline‑three naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact city cars (1988-1991). It combines a simple SOHC 6-valve design with a carbureted fuel system to deliver economical and reliable urban transportation. Designed to meet contemporary emissions standards, it prioritizes low-cost ownership and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,197 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑3, SOHC, 6‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 73.0 mm × 76.0 mm | |
| Power output | 40 kW (55 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 93 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor (PGM-CARB) | |
| Emissions standard | Meets applicable standards for model year | |
| Compression ratio | 9.2:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Turbocharger | None | |
| Timing system | Timing Belt | |
| Oil type | API SF/SG 10W-30 or 10W-40 | |
| Dry weight | Not specified in available OEM docs |
The simple SOHC design offers robust reliability but requires periodic valve clearance adjustments. The timing belt is a critical wear item and must be replaced at the manufacturer's specified interval to prevent catastrophic interference engine damage. The carburetor requires periodic cleaning and adjustment to maintain optimal performance and fuel economy, as detailed in service bulletins. Using the correct viscosity oil is essential for engine longevity.
Oil Specs: Requires API SF/SG specification oil (Honda Service Manual 88-91 City). Viscosity grade depends on ambient temperature.
Emissions: Meets applicable emissions standards for model year and market (Honda Emissions Certification Docs). No specific Euro standard designation.
Power Ratings: Measured under SAE net standards. Power figures are for stock, unmodified engines (Honda Group PT-1990).
Honda Technical Information System (Helm): Service Manual 88-91 City
Honda Service Bulletin Database: SIB 90-012
Honda Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. H-EB2-001
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda EB2 was used exclusively in Honda's AA platform with transverse mounting. This engine received no major facelift revisions during its production run, ensuring parts interchangeability across all model years. All specifications are documented in OEM technical bulletins.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the engine block, near the timing belt cover (Honda Service Manual 88-91 City). Visually, it can be identified by its compact three-cylinder layout and carburetor assembly. Critical differentiation from the later D-series engines: The EB2 is a three-cylinder engine with a carburetor, while D-series engines are four-cylinder and fuel-injected. Service parts are specific to the EB2 and not interchangeable with other Honda engine families.
The EB2's primary maintenance-critical item is its timing belt, with failure resulting in total engine destruction. Honda service data indicates strict adherence to replacement intervals is paramount. As a carbureted engine, it is also susceptible to issues related to fuel system aging, such as clogged jets or worn linkages, which are well-documented in service bulletins.
Analysis derived from Honda technical bulletins (1988-1991) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (1991-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA EB2.
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