K Series
The cutting edge technology that drives the new i-VTEC mechanism in the K series engines first burst on the scene in the Honda Civic EP3 Si. This DOHC engine strays quite a bit from the older B series cousins, but the K20 is undeniably at the forefront of Honda engine swaps. For more reading on the K series, check out our What is the K20 primer here.
Available in many Acura and Honda vehicles, the K20A is found in the early 2002-2004 Acura RSX Type S, after this year range it’s the K20Z1. Many of the later model K series engines also come as a larger displacement motor, with a 2.4 liter K24.If you can source one from a TSX with a six speed manual transmission, building a K24 hybrid can provide over 220 naturally aspirated horsepower which makes for a potent power to weight ratio.
The new i-VTEC variable valve technology is what pushes these K series swaps onto the Top 10 Best Honda engine swaps list. Available with 197hp on entry-level 2.0L engines, you can find JDM versions that can exceed 220 horsepower in factory form.
Why the K series swap in a Civic works – As the next step in Honda’s VTEC technology, the K series has plenty of love from the aftermarket companies and support.
Why the K series Swap in a Civic doesn’t work– It’s not the cheapest engine swap out there, and people predicted that the price point would be driven down as time goes by, but this swap is still pretty expensive. If you have over $6000 dollars burning a hole in your pocket, that can get you started. Compared to other options on this 10 best Honda engine swaps, this price makes this swap prohibitive to many people.
You also need several changes and additional components to make a K series swap in a Civic work. The additional cost of these parts and components detracts from the overall value of this Honda engine swap combination.
Mounts– You won’t need as much modification as the J series engine swap, but modification is still required.
Transmission Differences - Have a K20 swap engine but not sure what the differences are between the different K series transmissions?
Because the exhaust now faces your engine firewall, smogging your Honda engine swap will be difficult if you live in a state that cares about that kind of thing.