I'm looking into buying a new civic, either a DX or HX. What is the difference between the VTEC-E engine and the engine in the DX? Is either engine better than the other for modifying? Thanks in advance for any replies.

 

easier to modify the DX than the HX

 

VTEC-E is a VTEC system designed for maximized fuel economy rather than maximized power. This engine is in many ways a kind of updated CRX HF motor - complete with close-coupled cat and tiny throttle body. And it is an engine to be avoided if you want power. The DX motor is definitely the better choice for upgraded power.

 

i have an hx, and i wish i would've gotten the dx sitting next to it in the car lot. i'd go for the dx for more potential

 

I'd get the HX right now. With the gas prices right now, fuel economy is it.

I was gonna get a 98 HX, but wrecked my CRX a month before. My insurance would have been to high. I going for great motor, great gas milage, and a lot of high priced show quality parts.

 

That is the way I thought until those tall *** gears got me down shifting to 3rd on the freeway just to pass someone.

HX daily driving average 28 mpg. (intake and springs)
EX daily driving average 31 mpg. (I/H/E and same springs that were on the HX)

 

DX = non vtec. Two intake valves are in operation.. that's normal..
HX = VTEC-E. One intake valve is used at low rpms, the other is slightly used on a cam lobe with a lower profile. At higher rpms both intake valves are in operation, making it like the DX when it's in vtec.

DX engine is better to modify IMO.. but you'd probably get better gas mileage on the HX..


[Modified by Nameless, 5:39 PM 2/16/2003]