1994 Honda Civic SiR review from Australia and New Zealand

Oil sump had a leak at approximately 75,000 kilometers. Easily fixed.

Minor issues such as bulbs needing replacing.

No serious faults.

The VTEC engine is fantastic. The particular variant in the SiR is the famous B16A. The variable valve timing system does wanders for such a small displacment. The engine revs higher than I've previously experienced. It is strong enough to handle regular abuse with shifts above the sky high 7000 RPM range.

The great thing about the VTEC engine is its versatilty. It acts as an economical and modest engine in traffic, but can double as a race engine in the weekends.

The greatest benefit of this car is its economy. However, it only produces power at high rev ranges. Low down, the car is under powered.

Unfortunately, the interior is bland and plain. Honda let us all down with this one. The seats offer little support, and the dash board is a dull grey in colour. The white gauges are a pleasing attribute however.

The SiR really handles. Another great thing about these civics, is the selection of after market parts available at relitively low cost. VTEC controllers, suspension, body kits-you name it.

My latest dyno run offered power figures of 122kW @ 6500 RPM. A little down on power, but this is to be expected on a car approaching 100,000 kms.

A final hint to all civic owners: they respond fantastically well to a simple performance air filter, and exahust system.