Honda Del Sol VTEC
1993-1997
The Del Sol VTEC represents Honda's philosophy of accessible performance and engineering excellence. Its legendary B16A3 VTEC engine delivers an intoxicating rush as it climbs toward the 8000 RPM redline, while the removable targa top adds open-air excitement to every drive.
Quick Take
The Del Sol VTEC was Honda's targa-top sports car featuring a removable hardtop panel and the legendary B16A3 VTEC engine. It combined open-air driving thrills with Honda's reliable engineering and the intoxicating VTEC power delivery.
Best For
Key Strength
VTEC Magic
Watch For
Structural Compromises
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Introduced as Honda's answer to the Mazda Miata, the Del Sol was built on the Civic platform but offered unique targa-top styling. The VTEC variant became the crown jewel of the lineup, showcasing Honda's mastery of naturally aspirated performance engines during the golden age of Japanese sports cars.
Design Philosophy
Honda designed the Del Sol as a bridge between practicality and pure driving enjoyment. The targa top configuration provided convertible-like freedom while maintaining structural rigidity, while the clean, purposeful styling emphasized function over flash in typical Honda fashion.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The B16A3 VTEC engine is a masterpiece of naturally aspirated engineering that builds power smoothly until the VTEC crossover at 5600 RPM, then explodes with fury toward the 8000 RPM redline. It rewards aggressive driving with an addictive rush of power and one of the most distinctive engine notes ever produced.
Chassis Dynamics
Built on the proven Civic platform, the Del Sol offers nimble handling with responsive steering and well-balanced dynamics. The relatively low weight and stiff structure make it eager to change direction, though the front-wheel-drive layout can induce understeer when pushed hard in tight corners.
Sound Signature
The VTEC engine produces a distinctive growl that transforms into a high-pitched scream as it approaches redline. The sound is intoxicating and unmistakably Honda, creating an emotional connection between driver and machine.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The B16A3 VTEC engine delivers one of the most characterful power deliveries of the 1990s. The dramatic change in personality at 5,800 RPM transforms this economy car engine into a screaming 160hp powerplant that begs to be revved to its 8,000 RPM redline.
The removable roof panels offer the best of both worlds - coupe rigidity when needed and convertible freedom when desired. The innovative design stores the roof sections in the trunk, making it more practical than a traditional convertible for year-round use.
Honest Tradeoffs
Removing the targa top reveals significant chassis flex that affects handling precision. The car feels notably less rigid with the roof off, creating unwanted body movement during spirited driving that undermines the otherwise sharp handling dynamics.
The interior is cramped even by sports car standards, with limited headroom and virtually no storage space. When carrying the roof panels, trunk space becomes nearly non-existent, making it unsuitable for anything beyond short recreational drives.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for enthusiasts who want an affordable, reliable sports car that can serve daily duty while delivering weekend thrills. Ideal for those who appreciate Honda's engineering excellence and the unique VTEC experience.