The Honda ET1 is a 1,335 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1981 and 1985. It features a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) with two valves per cylinder, prioritizing simplicity and fuel efficiency for compact sedans. Peak output is 75 PS (55 kW) at 5,500 rpm and 103 Nm of torque, delivering adequate performance for its era.
Fitted primarily to the second-generation Honda Accord (AB) and the Honda Prelude (BA1), the ET1 was engineered for economical, reliable transportation. Its design focused on low manufacturing cost and ease of maintenance. Emissions compliance for its production era was managed through a carbureted fuel system and catalytic converter, meeting prevailing Japanese and European standards.
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 83-008. This can lead to rough idling or hesitation, typically resolved through cleaning or adjustment.
Production years 1981–1985 meet applicable emissions standards for their model year and market of sale (Honda Emissions Certification Docs).
The Honda ET1 is a 1,335 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sedans and coupes (1981-1985). It combines a simple SOHC 8-valve design with a carbureted fuel system to deliver economical and reliable transportation. Designed to meet contemporary emissions standards, it prioritizes low-cost ownership and ease of maintenance.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,335 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, SOHC, 8‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 74.0 mm × 77.5 mm | |
| Power output | 55 kW (75 PS) @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Torque | 103 Nm @ 3,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | Carburetor (PGM-CARB) | |
| Emissions standard | Meets applicable standards for model year | |
| Compression ratio | 9.0:1 | |
| 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 81-85 Accord). 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-1983).
Honda Technical Information System (Helm): Service Manual 81-85 Accord
Honda Service Bulletin Database: SIB 83-008
Honda Electronic Parts Catalog (EPC): Doc. H-ET1-001
SAE International: J1349 Engine Power Certification Standards
The Honda ET1 was used across Honda's AB/BA platforms 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 81-85 Accord). Visually, it can be identified by its carburetor assembly and lack of complex emissions hardware. Critical differentiation from the later A-series engines: The ET1 is a two-valve-per-cylinder engine with a carburetor, while A-series engines are typically fuel-injected. Service parts are specific to the ET1 and not interchangeable with other Honda engine families.
The ET1'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 (1981-1985) and aggregated owner-reported failure data (1985-2023). Repair procedures should follow manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA ET1.
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