Intro
The Honda CR-X VTEC represents one of the most celebrated chapters in Honda’s performance legacy. Introduced in 1989 as part of the second-generation CR-X lineup, the VTEC variant showcased Honda’s revolutionary Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control technology that delivered impressive power from a small-displacement engine while maintaining efficiency.
In JDM culture, the CR-X VTEC stands as an icon of accessible performance—a lightweight, nimble sports compact that embodied the philosophy of “less is more.” Its front-wheel-drive configuration, exceptional handling, and high-revving naturally-aspirated engine established a formula that influenced generations of sport compacts. The CR-X helped cement Honda’s reputation for building affordable vehicles that punched well above their weight class on both street and track.
This particular 1992 build exemplifies the enduring appeal of the CR-X platform. As one of the final production years before Honda discontinued the model, it represents the most refined version of the second-generation design, featuring the perfected B16A VTEC engine that delivered thrilling performance in a package weighing just over 2,000 pounds.
Builder Profile
Born in Osaka but raised in Southern California since age 10, Takeshi Morinaga developed his passion for Hondas while working as a junior mechanic at his uncle’s repair shop in Torrance. Now 29, TK balances his day job as an aerospace engineer with his true passion: meticulously building period-correct Honda projects.
TK’s philosophy centers on enhancing rather than reinventing Honda’s engineering. “The VTEC platform was revolutionary for its time. My goal is to highlight what made these cars special while subtly improving their weaknesses,” he explains.
A respected figure in the SoCal Honda scene, TK founded the “Rising Sun Classics” meet that brings together enthusiasts focused on preserving 80s and 90s JDM vehicles in their original glory. His CR-X build represents three years of sourcing rare parts from both sides of the Pacific, creating what he calls “the CR-X that Honda engineers might have built if given free rein.”
Why We Love It
The CR-X VTEC doesn’t simply represent Honda’s engineering—it embodies the philosophical apex of the golden era of Japanese performance. While its 1.6-liter B16A might seem modest on paper with 158 naturally-aspirated horsepower, the VTEC system‘s variable valve timing delivers that quintessential Jekyll-and-Hyde character: docile commuter below 5,800 rpm, screaming track weapon beyond.
What separates the VTEC from lesser CR-Xs is its surgical precision. The taut chassis weighs barely 1,050kg, creating a power-to-weight ratio that humbled period rivals. The short-throw gearbox—arguably one of the finest manual transmissions ever engineered—clicks between ratios with mechanical perfection, while the Torsion Beam rear suspension delivers remarkable stability for such a compact platform.
Its design is function personified—the aggressive rake, low greenhouse, and split rear glass aren’t stylistic flourishes but aerodynamic necessities. The VTEC variant’s subtle visual differences—front lip, specific wheels, and modest badging—speak to Japanese restraint where Western manufacturers would have slathered on visual aggression.
Today, unmolested examples are vanishing treasures. The CR-X VTEC represents the philosophical purity of Honda’s engineering doctrine before electronics and regulations diluted the connection between driver and machine—a mechanical experience that rewards technical driving with transcendent feedback.
Mods
ENGINE & DRIVETRAIN
- Spoon Sports intake manifold
- Mugen header and exhaust system
- HKS Super Sequential BOV
- Cusco oil catch can
- ARC front-mount intercooler
- GReddy turbo kit (TD05-16G)
- Exedy Stage 2 clutch kit
- Skunk2 short shifter
- Jun camshafts
- Keihin FCR carburetors
SUSPENSION & BRAKES
- Tein Super Street coilovers
- Cusco front and rear strut bars
- Cusco lower arm bar
- Spoon Sports rigid collar kit
- Project Mu brake pads
- Endless stainless steel brake lines
- Spoon Sports monoblock calipers
- Tanabe stabilizer bars
WHEELS & TIRES
- RAYS Volk Racing TE37 15×7 +35
- Yokohama ADVAN Neova AD08R (205/50R15)
- Project KICS R40 Neo Chrome lug nuts
- 5mm H&R wheel spacers
EXTERIOR / AERO
- J’s Racing front lip
- Spoon Sports carbon fiber hood
- Vision carbon fiber side skirts
- Backyard Special rear diffuser
- Voltex Type 1 rear wing
- JDM yellow fog lights
- PIAA HID conversion
- Miracle cross bar (X-brace)
INTERIOR
- Bride Zeta III bucket seats
- Takata 4-point harnesses
- Personal Neo Grinta steering wheel
- Works Bell quick-release hub
- Mugen shift knob
- Defi gauges (boost, oil pressure, water temp)
- Nardi wood grain shift boot
- MOMO pedal set
ELECTRONICS / ECU
- A’PEXi Power FC engine management
- HKS EVC boost controller
- AEM wideband O2 sensor
- Alpine head unit with JL Audio components
- Pivot throttle controller
- Blitz turbo timer
- Kenwood amplifier
- Focal component speakers
Driving Impression / Build Philosophy
This CR-X VTEC build exemplifies a carefully orchestrated balance of performance enhancements that work in harmony rather than competing with each other. The modifications follow a cohesive philosophy focused on creating an engaging street car with weekend track capability.
The combination of suspension upgrades, including the Ground Control coilovers and Progress anti-roll bars, maintains the CR-X’s inherent handling characteristics while sharpening response and reducing body roll. By keeping the power modifications modest—focusing on breathing improvements rather than forced induction—the build preserves the high-revving VTEC character that defines these cars.
This approach speaks to a purpose-driven build that prioritizes balance over raw numbers. The car remains streetable for daily use with its functional interior and reasonable ride height, yet offers enough performance to satisfy on canyon roads or occasional track days. Unlike single-purpose time attack or drift builds, this CR-X represents the versatile street-performance philosophy that defined the golden era of Honda tuning—enhancing the manufacturer’s engineering rather than completely reimagining it.
The aesthetic choices complement this philosophy, with period-correct wheels and subtle exterior modifications that signal performance intent without sacrificing civility or creating a pure show car.
FAQ
How reliable is the 1992 Honda CR-X VTEC?
The 1992 CR-X VTEC is exceptionally reliable with proper maintenance. The B16A VTEC engine regularly exceeds 200,000 miles without major issues. Preventative maintenance like timing belt replacement every 60,000-90,000 miles is essential. Most owners report minimal mechanical problems compared to contemporaries.
What are the common issues with the CR-X VTEC?
Common issues include rust around rear wheel arches and sunroof, worn synchronizers in the transmission (especially 2nd and 3rd gear), deteriorated suspension bushings, and electrical gremlins in the instrument cluster. The stock clutch hydraulic system can also fail with age. Head gasket failures are rare but possible at high mileage.
What’s the tuning potential for the CR-X VTEC?
The B16A VTEC engine responds exceptionally well to modifications. With basic bolt-ons (intake, header, exhaust), power can increase from 150hp to 170-180hp. More extensive modifications including cams, valvetrain upgrades, and engine management can push output beyond 200hp naturally aspirated. The platform also accepts other Honda engines like B18C and K-series swaps for even greater potential.
What are the best modifications for a CR-X VTEC?
The most effective modifications include: performance suspension (Koni/Ground Control or coilovers), intake and exhaust upgrades, ECU tuning, upgraded brakes (common swap from Integra Type-R), and chassis reinforcement. For daily drivers, focus on handling upgrades and mild power enhancements that preserve reliability.
How expensive is the CR-X VTEC to maintain?
Maintenance costs are relatively low compared to other performance cars. Parts availability remains good through OEM and aftermarket channels, though genuine Honda parts for CR-X specific items are becoming scarcer. Labor costs are moderate as most components are accessible. Fuel economy remains excellent (25-30 MPG) even when driven spiritedly.
Is the CR-X VTEC a good track day or autocross car?
The CR-X VTEC makes an excellent track or autocross platform due to its lightweight chassis (approximately 2,400 lbs), responsive VTEC engine, and excellent handling characteristics. With modest modifications to brakes, cooling, and suspension, they’re highly competitive in stock classes and provide an ideal learning platform for novice drivers.
How does the CR-X VTEC compare to other Honda sport compacts?
The CR-X VTEC offers the best power-to-weight ratio of early 90s Hondas, outperforming the Civic Si and competing with the Integra GS-R. It provides a more raw driving experience than later Honda models due to its minimalist design, light weight, and lack of electronic driving aids. The rarity, distinctive styling and driving dynamics have made it more collectible than contemporary Hondas.
Conclusion
The 1992 Honda CR-X VTEC stands as a tribute to automotive engineering excellence that transcends its era. Three decades after its production, this lightweight, nimble sports compact continues to captivate enthusiasts with its perfect balance of efficiency and performance. Its revolutionary VTEC technology influenced countless performance vehicles that followed, cementing the CR-X’s place in automotive history.
In today’s world of increasingly complex and heavy vehicles, the CR-X’s pure driving experience and mechanical simplicity represent a connection to driving fundamentals that many modern cars have sacrificed. Its enduring popularity in aftermarket modifications and restoration projects demonstrates its significance in Japanese domestic market (JDM) culture.
For JDM enthusiasts, the CR-X VTEC remains an iconic trophy – a symbol of Honda’s golden era when engineering innovation and driver engagement were paramount. Its rarity, especially in unmodified condition, has elevated its status from affordable sports compact to coveted collector’s item. The passionate community that surrounds these vehicles guarantees the CR-X legacy will continue influencing automotive culture for generations to come, proving that sometimes the most impactful vehicles aren’t the most powerful or expensive, but those that deliver the purest expression of driving joy.