Is the vx the king?
 

Is the 92-95 honda vx the king with the D15Z1 engine as far as internal combustion only (non electric)? It seems that against the sprint, metro, and I think one other that I can't think of at the moment it is the best combination between power and efficiency. The vx rolls around 90hp and is rated at roughly 45/55 (please don't crucify me for the mpg numbers not being exact). Is there a better combination out there or better setup as far a car that hasn't been modified for aerodynamics?

I guess it depends on your idea of "best combination of". I have driven VXs and a CRX HF, and I like driving the CRX better, it feels sportier. Not as good FE numbers, but in my case I would take a little more performance over efficiency. Your mileage may vary, literally.

Thanks for the info, I appreciate. Anyone else with any input on the situation please let me know as I'm open to opinions.

live4soccer7 -

I like to call the VX an MPG Rock Star along with the CRX HF and the 1st Gen Honda Insight.

CarloSW2

The Volkswagen Lupo 3L is a strong contender.

Volkswagen Lupo - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

I'd think a smart fortwo diesel would be around the same.

The new EPA stats list the 55mpg Vx at 39mpg city/49mpg highway, you can check out any car's stats at Fuel Economy

Gonna have to side with the VW TDI on this one....

http://www.diskdrive.co.za/newsstori...lupo3ltdi.html

CRX HF gets slightly better mileage, metro XFI gets better mileage, VW rabbit diesel gets better mileage, first generation Honda Insight (hybrid) gets better mileage, but I agree with the civic VX being an awesome car, I'm on my 2nd one and wouldn't give it up for any of the other cars I've listed other then the Insight.

Good to hear!! I'm picking up an all stock vx tomorrow. Flying to go pick it up. Not too bad. I figure it is a cheap vehicle that gets exceptional mileage and is extremely cheap to work on AND has passenger space. Seems like a great combination to me.

I got the vx on friday and on a 253 mile section that I started to record the mileage I got 50mpg on the vx and it has 260k on it. Sweetness. Drove amazingly and that was at 75mph nearly the whole time.

Any suggestions on what I should do to the car as far as monitoring things and improving mileage. Not looking to make an aero civics, but simple things or installing a gauge set or something.

Change the transmission fluid frequently (15k miles) and air up the tires to max sidewall. Also make sure the timing belt has been changed recently or at least within it's service interval.

Yes, I will be doing all of those things before driving it again.

Where do you recommend getting OEM parts online for the vx?

Honda Automotive Parts

Is where I buy my Honda parts online, some of the stuff is even cheaper then the made in china stuff from the auto part stores and it always fits right.
Of course stuff like O2 sensors, spark plugs and other common parts you can get cheaper, but even the exhaust is best from the dealership because it then has a warranty for as long as you own the car and it will fit perfectly.

Thanks, I appreciate the info.

I noticed that in the FSM for the 92-95 civic they recommend 5w-30, but they say to use, "Energy Conserving II" SG Grade Oil. Any input on this or what you guys use?

I was going to use amsoil as I'm a strong believer, but not sure about the energy conserving part.

89 CRX HF with VX motor swap and HF tranny...:D Haha

That doesn't help much

Haha sorry, you asked on our opinions:P

"Google is your friend." I'd go with full synthetic in whatever you choose...

I have looked on google, doesn't give to much. Seems like it is an outdated standard. Not sure what has replaced it though, that is the only thing.

I think next time I change my tranny fluid in my VX I'm going to go with the Honda labeled MTF from the dealer because it only holds a few quarts so it's not a big cost.
I had Amsoil MTF in my VX tranny a few years ago when I had the main bearing go out on it, granted it also had 230,000 miles on it as well so I can't say what the true cause was but the Amsoil MTF is very thin, thinner then Honda specs for the transmission.
I currently have Amsoil 0w 30 in my current vx transmission and have no issues with it, it shifts really well in cold weather and in warm weather it feels tight and smooth and this car has 220,000 miles on it and like I said, shifts like it was new.

I have a relative that put synchromesh in his tranny and he says it shifts better than ever. I think that since I don't have any current tranny issues I will be going with the Honda MTF. Now I just need to pick a suitable oil that is, "Energy Conserving II". Anyone know anything about this? Do pretty much all synthetics meet that standard? Like I said earlier, I want to get the amsoil stuff, but as long as it meets that criteria. I'm not an oil "guru", which is why I'm asking for some input there. I know amsoil sells a very good oil filter as well that I'll be using in conjunction.

What is my best option for a real time feedback on fuel and such. Like the scan gauge setup?

I believe that most or all synthetics will meet that. If you get a chance to look at the label, look for the API service logo. The "Energy Conserving" label will be a part of that, either around the outside or in the middle?

Interesting, this is a quote from the BITOG forum:
Anyway, look for the API "donut" and it will say Energy Conserving or not. If it does, its the stuff you want.

-soD

Thanks, I picked up some of the signature series amsoil 5w-30