Honda Car Forum

I wanna know whats the difference with 02-04 RSX engines. I know the numbers as far as horsepower, torque, what models have what engines, etc....I just wanna know what parts in the engines seperate them. The k20a(TypeR), k20a2(TypeS), k20a3(Base)...I know the base model has a plastic exhaust manifold, so thats one...but what else? Please no smart ass answers..

The base engine has Vtec only on the intake and produces 155 HP. The Type S has Vtec on both the intake and exhaust and produces 200 HP, but it takes an addional 1000 rpm to do it. The R wasn't imported to the US.

plastic exhaust manifold that would of melt. You mean intake manifold. Like the other guy stated. Check k20a.org

If you literally mean the engine then the engines are not terribly different.The base engine did not have "full vtec" so its overhead cams were slightly different then the trims above it.The type-s and the type-r both had forged cranks to allow them to rev to higher limits then the base. The difference internally between the type-r and the type-s was the cam shafts. The cam shafts on the type-r were slightly more agressive and set up to rev higher then the type-s motors.If you are talking about bolt on parts then the type-s had a better intake manifold and exhaust then the base.The type-r had a nicer intake manifold and exhaust then the type-s.Then to really fall off topic the type-r had a different final drive which afffected acceleration as well.

there is no type R for the RSX...

You already know the horsepower and torque so there is no need to list them. The base model K20 focused on fuel efficiency. The the vtec in that motor works to save fuel no to enhance performance. The internals are the difference in each engine. For the type s and the type r K20 the cams have long duration to increase the amount of air and fuel that goes in the engine. Though the type has a slight range in duration than the type s. Also the compression is different between all the engines.

Check k20a.org