The LS/VTEC and B18C Alternative

[2ndGenTeg]

In my last article, I wrote about the evils of LS/VTEC- namely the rod stroke ratio and its subsequent limitations. Remember, power is nothing more than the product of torque and RPM. Hondas make power through high RPMs, not torque. LS/VTEC increases torque, but limits the redline. So how do you get the best of both worlds?

Consider this: Johnny Hondaman, looking at installing an LS/VTEC or B18C into his cherished ride. Here are his options:

B18C:
1797cc of displacement
1.58:1 r/s ratio
140-150 hp

LS/VTEC
1834cc of displacement
1.54:1 r/s ratio
155-165 hp(?) (I have yet to see a dyno of a "stock(?)" LS/VTEC- no cams, stock I/H/E, stock internals, etc.)

So what's a guy to do? I have a better idea.