The Honda ZC2 is a 1,590 cc, inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine produced between 1988 and 1991. It features a dual overhead camshaft (DOHC) design, 16 valves, and Honda's PGM-FI electronic fuel injection. This engine was engineered for spirited performance in Honda's compact sports coupes, delivering 105 kW (143 PS) and 150 Nm of torque.
Fitted primarily to the third-generation Integra (DA6/DA8), the ZC2 was designed for high-revving character and precise throttle response. Emissions compliance for its era was managed through precise fuel injection and ignition timing, meeting Japanese Ministry of Transport and US DOT/FMVSS regulations.
One documented engineering focus was optimizing high-RPM power. Honda addressed this through aggressive cam profiles and a high-compression design, as detailed in the original Integra Service Manual. This focus delivered a thrilling 7,200 rpm redline but required precise maintenance for long-term reliability.
Honda
Production years 1988–1991 predate formal Euro emissions standards. Engine meets original Japanese Ministry of Transport and US DOT/FMVSS regulations for its production era.
The Honda ZC2 is a 1,590 cc inline‑four naturally aspirated petrol engine engineered for compact sports coupes (1988-1991). It combines a high-revving DOHC design with PGM-FI fuel injection to deliver thrilling performance. Designed for its era, it reflects pre-catalyst engineering focused on mechanical precision and driver engagement.
| Parameter | Value | Source |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 1,590 cc | |
| Fuel type | Petrol | |
| Configuration | Inline‑4, DOHC, 16‑valve | |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated | |
| Bore × stroke | 81.0 mm × 77.4 mm | |
| Power output | 105 kW (143 PS) @ 6,800 rpm | |
| Torque | 150 Nm @ 5,500 rpm | |
| Fuel system | PGM-FI (Programmed Fuel Injection) | |
| Emissions standard | Pre-catalyst (Meets 1988-1991 JIS/US DOT) | |
| Compression ratio | 9.5:1 | |
| Cooling system | Water‑cooled | |
| Timing system | Belt-driven | |
| Oil type | SAE 10W-40 (Mineral) | |
| Dry weight | 115 kg |
The 7,200 rpm redline demands strict adherence to valve clearance adjustments every 20,000 km to prevent valve float or damage. The belt-driven valvetrain requires replacement every 90,000 km to prevent catastrophic failure. The high-compression ratio demands premium 95 RON fuel. The PGM-FI system is robust but requires clean electrical grounds and a healthy battery for optimal operation.
Oil Specs: Requires SAE 10W-40 mineral oil (Honda Integra Service Manual, 1988). Synthetic oil was not specified for this era.
Emissions: Predates Euro standards. Compliance based on 1988-1991 Japanese Industrial Standards (JIS D 1001) and US Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS).
Power Ratings: Measured under JIS D 1001 standards. Peak power requires precise ignition timing and valve clearance (Honda Integra Service Manual).
Honda Integra Service Manual (1988 Edition)
Japanese Industrial Standards: JIS D 1001
US Department of Transportation: Federal Motor Vehicle Safety Standards (FMVSS), 1988
The Honda ZC2 was developed exclusively for Honda's third-generation Integra (DA6/DA8) platform and is not licensed to other manufacturers. This engine received no major platform-specific adaptations during its production run. All applications are documented in the original factory service manual.
Locate the engine code stamped on the front of the cylinder block, near the distributor (Honda Integra Service Manual). The engine code is "ZC2". Visually, the engine is identifiable by its black valve cover with 'DOHC' lettering and the prominent distributor on the cylinder head. Critical differentiation from the D16A6: The ZC2 has a higher compression ratio (9.5:1 vs 9.3:1) and more aggressive camshafts, yielding higher power. Service parts like the head and cams are not interchangeable.
The ZC2's primary reliability focus is maintaining its high-RPM valvetrain. Honda's original durability testing showed excellent longevity when serviced correctly, while owner data from vintage clubs suggests timing belt failure and distributor wear are the most frequent catastrophic issues. Neglecting the 90,000 km belt change interval leads to immediate engine destruction.
Analysis derived from Honda Integra Service Manual (1988) and aggregated data from Honda Integra Owner's Club (Japan & USA, 2005-2024). Repair procedures should follow original manufacturer guidelines.
Find answers to most commonly asked questions about HONDA ZC2.
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