VTEC is a loose
acro for Variable Valve Timing and Electronic Lift Control.
VTEC is a system which optimizes the power output and fuel consumption of a motor. Some VTEC models were built towards fuel economy , while others were for performance.
VTEC is engaged at all times. It enhances the engines low torque torque by enabling a cam for low
rpm torque duty. Then crosses over to a high rpm cam profile which takes advantage of the high rpm and optimizes the power there. This in turn creates two
motors in one , Honda has used this engineering along with lower powered 4cyl motors to create fuel efficient motors that produce
power levels of V6 motors , with a more
peppier , rev happy and refined feel.
It takes about .1-.01 seconds for VTEC to engage to the higher rpm cam mode. A big misconception with VTEC is that it kicks in at only one point. This is wrong , it is on all the time. Its setup to give a little surge when going into it for a number of reasons, this is why most tend to believe it only comes on at higher rpm or have VTEC
off and on. It is always active at low and high rpm. The main reason it is so effective.
To take into consideration a 5.0 8cyl 93 mustang vs a 2.
2l 4cyl prelude will beat the mustang at low and high speeds. This is due to the
optimized system and low vehicle weight. This is the basis for all of
honda's vehicles. Which provides a cleaner environment and has lower costs to operate. More info can be found on VTEC systems @
superhonda.com
VTEC provides an
optimized cam profile for the desired
rpm.