How much horsepower does a Honda Del Sol make?

Depending on year, market, and trim, the Honda del Sol makes roughly 102–160 horsepower in the United States, and about 90–170 PS internationally (approximately 89–168 hp), with the high-performance VTEC models at the top of the range. Introduced globally in the early 1990s as the CR-X del Sol and sold in the U.S. from 1993 to 1997, the targa-topped two-seater came with several engines that define its output.

U.S. market horsepower by trim and year (1993–1997)

The U.S.-spec del Sol was offered in S, Si, and VTEC trims, with updates midway through the run. The following breakdown shows the factory-rated horsepower for each configuration.

• 1993–1995 S: 1.5L SOHC (D15B7) — 102 hp
• 1996–1997 S: 1.6L SOHC (D16Y7) — 106 hp
• 1993–1995 Si: 1.6L SOHC VTEC (D16Z6) — 125 hp
• 1996–1997 Si: 1.6L SOHC VTEC (D16Y8) — 127 hp
• 1994–1995 VTEC: 1.6L DOHC VTEC (B16A3) — 160 hp
• 1996–1997 VTEC: 1.6L DOHC VTEC (B16A2) — 160 hp

In short, base S models sit just above 100 hp, the Si steps up to the mid‑120s, and the VTEC variant delivers a robust 160 hp thanks to its high-revving DOHC VTEC engine.

International variants and outputs (1992–1998)

Outside the U.S., outputs vary by regional emissions rules and model naming. Europe commonly used PS ratings, and Japan received the highest-spec B16 engines.

• Europe: 1.5 (often “E”) around 90 PS (≈89 hp); 1.6 “ESi” SOHC VTEC about 125 PS (≈123 hp); 1.6 “VTi” DOHC VTEC about 160 PS (≈158 hp).
• Japan: “SiR” with the B16A typically rated at 170 PS (≈168 hp), the top factory figure for the del Sol; lower trims varied by year and equipment.

While equipment lists and badges differ by market, the general pattern holds: entry models near 90–106 hp, mid-tier SOHC VTEC around 125–127 hp, and the DOHC VTEC flagship at roughly 160–170 PS.

How to confirm your del Sol’s horsepower

If you’re unsure which engine your car has, a few quick checks will pinpoint its factory rating.

• Check the under-hood emissions/VIN label for the engine code (e.g., D15B7, D16Z6, D16Y8, B16A2/A3).
• Look for the stamped engine code on the block (front of the engine, below the head).
• Verify the trim badge (S, Si, VTEC) and model year; power changed after the 1996 update.
• Consult the owner’s manual or original sales brochure for market-specific ratings.

Matching the engine code and model year to the figures above will give you the most accurate factory horsepower for your specific car.

Performance context

On the road, these outputs translate to distinct character. Base S models are economical cruisers; the Si adds mid-range punch; the VTEC transforms the del Sol into a rev-happy sports compact with performance on par with period hot hatches. Contemporary tests typically recorded 0–60 mph in roughly 9.5–10.5 seconds for S models, 8.5–9.2 seconds for Si, and about 7.0–7.6 seconds for the VTEC, depending on conditions and transmission.

Summary

A Honda del Sol makes anywhere from about 102 to 160 horsepower in U.S. specification, with the high-revving DOHC VTEC model at the top. Internationally, outputs span roughly 90 to 170 PS, capped by Japan’s 170 PS SiR. Identifying the engine code and trim will tell you exactly where your car falls in that range.

How much horsepower does a 97 del Sol have?

160 horsepower
The 1997 del Sol ranges in power from the S Coupe 2D with 106 horsepower to the VTEC Coupe 2D with 160 horsepower.

How much horsepower does a 1993 del Sol have?

The 1993 Honda Del Sol’s horsepower varied depending on the trim level. The base “S” model had a 1.5-liter engine producing 102 horsepower. The higher-trim “Si” model featured a 1.6-liter engine with VTEC, producing 125 horsepower.

How much horsepower does a 1996 Honda Del Sol have?

160 horsepower
Engine: 1.6-liter inline 4, 160 horsepower at 7,600 rpm, 111 pound-feet of torque at 7,000 rpm.

How much HP does a del Sol have?

160 hp
The del Sol VTEC receives the 1.6-litre (98 cu in) 160 hp (120 kW) DOHC VTEC B16A2 engine (U.S.) OBD-II Emission control system implemented.