Have a 91 CRX DX D15 manual. I am looking to build a daily drive able 285 whp on a decent budget. What would the d15 need, as far as internals, to safely run this power? I also have the option of building a b18/b20 for it, but if I can make the 285 I want without having to go through the hassle of a full swap that's my preference. Would this bottom end be set with a good honing, block guard, and connecting rods? Or do I have to take it further? Also, I don't know how expensive machine shop work like that is. Oh yeah, moderate budget means I'm not going to buy no name parts, but I still want to spend the minimum for this amount of reliable power. Thanks

 

I would use the b series engine, the stock d series can not achieve your goal without internal mods

 

you can have a turbod rev happy stock b16a that pushes 280whp safely, the money and time put into that d15 wouldn't be worth it for the power you want to achieve, a swap sounds like a hassle but anyone with half the iq of a goat could do it, especially with this website

 

The 1.5 doesn't have good aftermarket support. You'd want to go with a d16 at least. Then you'd need rods and pistons (Vitara on a budget). No need for a block guard. Just run that and the stock sleeves should hold 285 just fine.

Or a B18A1/B20Z for like $500-1000 for the motor. Cable trans (LS cable trans is cheap) and run a stock motor up to 300 HP easy.

I think for the cost of internals on a D-series, you can afford one of the cheaper non-VTEC B-series swaps. Then you'll get more torque and the added 'wow cool wow' of a DOHC motor.

 

Yeah, definitely don't bother with that D15. You could have the rev happyness of a B16, or even better, you could get the added torque and wider useable powerband from a B18. Mate an LS motor with the right sized turbo, and you'll easily (and safely) make 300 on a reasonable budget.

 

I'd go B18A/B over a B16A if budget is a concern. They are generally cheaper.