VTEC Technical Information

• In engines with VTEC technology, two camshaft profiles are used to select valve lift, duration and timing at different RPMs. For lower RPMs, one camshaft profile is used to determine how long the valves stay open, how much they are opened and at what timing opening and closing occurs. At higher RPMs, the camshaft profile is changed, allowing the valves to open and close quickly and more fully.
  
  

VTEC in Practice

• VTEC-equipped Honda models are known for the "woosh" feeling of being pushed back in the seat when the camshaft profile switches at higher RPMs. At low RPMs, the car can take advantage of torque for acceleration. Once the VTEC "kicks over," the increase in power you feel on the road comes from the valves being fully opened.
  
  

The First VTEC Engine

• Developed by Honda engineer Ikuo Kajitani, VTEC was first included in Japan on the 1989 Honda Integra RSi and XSi with their smooth, 160-horsepower, 1.6-liter DOHC B16A VTEC engines. In the United States, the B16A VTEC was first employed on the 1990 Acura Integra Type R.