What engine is in a 1998 Honda Accord LX?

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The 1998 Honda Accord LX uses a 2.3-liter inline-4 engine (2.3 L I-4), which was the standard powerplant for most LX models in the U.S. market.

In more detail, the 1998 Accord line belonged to the sixth generation and offered the 2.3 L four-cylinder as the typical LX engine, while higher trims such as EX-V6 bridged to a 3.0-liter V6. Transmission choices included a five-speed manual or a four-speed automatic, depending on the configuration and options chosen at purchase.

Engine options and trim alignment

The LX trim is commonly associated with the 2.3-liter four-cylinder. A larger 3.0-liter V6 was available on higher trims, but not as part of the standard LX lineup for most markets.

2.3 L inline-4 (F23A family) — roughly 140–150 horsepower and around 150 lb-ft of torque, depending on year and emission controls.

3.0 L V6 (C-series) — offered on higher-spec trims like EX-V6; not part of the base LX configuration.

In practice, buyers choosing the LX should expect the four-cylinder engine, with either a manual or automatic transmission depending on the vehicle’s specification.

Technical specifications (2.3 L I4)

Key technical notes for the 2.3 L engine used in the LX include its displacement, configuration, and transmission compatibility.

Displacement: 2.3 liters (approximately 2264–2316 cc, depending on the variant).

Configuration: Inline-4 (I4).

Induction/fuel system: Multi-point fuel injection; naturally aspirated.

Power and torque: Approximately 140–150 horsepower and about 140–160 lb-ft of torque, depending on year and emission controls.

Available transmissions: 5-speed manual or 4-speed automatic, depending on market and options.

For exact figures, refer to the specific vehicle’s VIN or original window sticker, since there can be regional or production-year variations.

Common maintenance considerations

When evaluating a used 1998 Accord LX, consider routine maintenance history for the 2.3 L engine, including timing belt replacement intervals, oil changes, and cooling-system service. A well-documented maintenance record helps ensure reliable performance from the original four-cylinder powerplant.

Summary

The typical engine for a 1998 Honda Accord LX in the U.S. market is a 2.3-liter inline-4, delivering roughly 140–150 horsepower. Higher trims offered a 3.0-liter V6, but the LX was commonly equipped with the four-cylinder powerplant, paired with either a manual or automatic transmission.

What engine is in a 98 Accord LX?

For the 1998 model year, the sedan was offered in DX, LX, LX-V6, EX and EX-V6 trims, while the Accord Coupe was offered only in LX, LX-V6, EX and EX-V6 trims. The DX model was fitted with a 2.3L I4 non-VTEC engine rated at 135 bhp (101 kW), while the LX and EX included a 2.3L I4 VTEC engine rated at 150 bhp (110 kW).

Does the 1998 Honda Accord have VTEC?

The '98 Accord is also well served in the engine department. The overhead cam, 16-valve, inline-4 has been bored and stroked to 2.3-liters. On the DX, horsepower is now 135 with 145 pound-feet of torque. The LX and EX add VTEC variable valve timing.

What year was a bad year for the Honda Accord?

Q: Which Honda Accord generations have had the most problematic model years? A: The sixth generation (1998-2002) and parts of the seventh (2003-2005), eighth (2008-2010), and ninth generations (2013-2014) have had Honda Accord model years that are best avoided due to various issues and excessive complaints.