I know the new engine in MY 04 is controversial and has been discussed before. But what if the 2.2 is the original engine and Honda changes the engine to 2.0 in MY 04? How would you feel about it? Would that be an upgrade or downgrade? The "new" engine has less torque and peakier powerband. I notice some s2k lovers is obsessed with the 9000rpm redline and the higher HP/liter of the 2.0, and yes, they are two of many characteristics that make the s2k an s2k. I am just curious about what you guys think. Upgrade, downgrade, or just matter of taste?

 

I am really trying to imagine that the MY00-MY03's are 2.2L with more torque. You raise a good scenario to think about.

If the MY04's were to switch to 2.0L with a 9000 redline, what would Honda be promoting as improvements? Also, what would fans of the MY04 2.0L's be bragging about?

I think Honda will say the 9K redline resembles more of an F1 type engine WITHOUT sacrificing peak horsepower. They probably will not mention the decrease in torque, but say something along the lines of "the power band will be emphasized to a greater degree in the VTEC range where a more pronounced kick will be present."

I will probably wait for the MY04 and buy the 2.0 9K motor since I will have bragging rights about the redline and the hp per liter output being #1 in production car, second to none.

All in all, there will be the same arguments on this forum with the same points and counter points, only the 2.0 and 2.2 will be reversed for the year MY04.

Good point.

 

There is already a debate thread going on the 04. Please post there.