The Honda Accord IV Coupe (CC1) 2.2 i 16V, produced between 1990 and 1993, represented a significant evolution in Honda’s popular Accord line. This two-door coupe variant, part of the fourth-generation Accord (1989-1993), offered a more sporty and stylish alternative to the four-door sedan. The CC1 chassis code specifically designates the coupe body style. Within the fourth-generation Accord range, the 2.2 i 16V trim occupied a mid-to-upper position, offering a balance of performance and features appealing to buyers seeking a more engaging driving experience than the base models, but without the outright performance focus of potential future Si or VTEC variants. It was primarily sold in North America and Japan, with variations in equipment levels depending on the specific market.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Accord |
| Generation | Accord IV Coupe (CC1) |
| Type (Engine) | 2.2 i 16V (150 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1990 |
| End of production | 1993 |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Coupe |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 2 |
| Fuel consumption (urban) | 11.7 l/100 km (20.1 US mpg, 24.1 UK mpg, 8.5 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (extra urban) | 6.8 l/100 km (34.6 US mpg, 41.5 UK mpg, 14.7 km/l) |
| Fuel consumption (combined) | 8.5 l/100 km (27.7 US mpg, 33.2 UK mpg, 11.8 km/l) |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Acceleration 0 – 100 km/h | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 62 mph | 8.4 sec |
| Acceleration 0 – 60 mph | 8 sec |
| Maximum speed | 212 km/h (131.73 mph) |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8 kg/Hp, 124.5 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 6.1 kg/Nm, 164.3 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 150 Hp @ 5900 rpm |
| Power per litre | 69.6 Hp/l |
| Torque | 198 Nm @ 5000 rpm (146.04 lb.-ft. @ 5000 rpm) |
| Engine layout | Front, Transverse |
| Engine Model/Code | F22A7 |
| Engine displacement | 2155 cm3 (131.51 cu. in.) |
| Number of cylinders | 4 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 85 mm (3.35 in.) |
| Piston Stroke | 95 mm (3.74 in.) |
| Compression ratio | 9.8:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Engine oil capacity | 3.8 l (4.02 US qt | 3.34 UK qt) |
| Coolant capacity | 6.6 l (6.97 US qt | 5.81 UK qt) |
| Kerb Weight | 1205 kg (2656.57 lbs.) |
| Trunk (boot) space – minimum | 488 l (17.23 cu. ft.) |
| Fuel tank capacity | 64 l (16.91 US gal | 14.08 UK gal) |
| Length | 4685 mm (184.45 in.) |
| Width | 1695 mm (66.73 in.) |
| Height | 1375 mm (54.13 in.) |
| Wheelbase | 2720 mm (107.09 in.) |
| Front track | 1475 mm (58.07 in.) |
| Rear track | 1480 mm (58.27 in.) |
| Drivetrain Architecture | The Internal combustion engine (ICE) drives the front wheels of the vehicle. |
| Drive wheel | Front wheel drive |
| Number of gears and type of gearbox | 5 gears, manual transmission |
| Front suspension | Coil spring |
| Rear suspension | Coil spring |
| Front brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Steering type | Steering rack and pinion |
| Power steering | Hydraulic Steering |
| Tires size | 195/65 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The heart of the Accord IV Coupe 2.2 i 16V was the F22A7 engine, a 2.2-liter inline-four cylinder powerplant. This engine featured a single overhead camshaft (SOHC) valvetrain operating 16 valves (four per cylinder). The F22A7 utilized multi-port fuel injection, a significant advancement over earlier carburetor-equipped engines, contributing to improved fuel efficiency and throttle response. The engine’s 9.8:1 compression ratio was a compromise between performance and the fuel quality available in various markets. The engine was transversely mounted in the front of the vehicle, driving the front wheels. The 5-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with full control over the engine’s power band. The transmission was chosen for its durability and relatively simple design, contributing to the Accord’s reputation for reliability.
Driving Characteristics
The 150 horsepower and 146 lb-ft of torque produced by the F22A7 engine provided the Accord Coupe with respectable, though not blistering, performance. Acceleration from 0-60 mph took approximately 8 seconds, and the car could reach a top speed of around 132 mph. The 5-speed manual transmission allowed drivers to keep the engine in its optimal power range, providing a reasonably engaging driving experience. Compared to the base model Accords with smaller engines, the 2.2 i 16V offered noticeably improved acceleration and highway passing power. However, it didn’t possess the sharper handling or higher revving nature of later, more performance-oriented Honda models like the Accord Si. The gear ratios were tuned for a balance of acceleration and fuel economy, making it a comfortable daily driver.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The 2.2 i 16V Accord Coupe typically came standard with features such as power steering, air conditioning, and an AM/FM stereo. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. Dashboard configuration was relatively straightforward, prioritizing functionality over elaborate styling. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded sound systems, and alloy wheels. The specific trim levels and available options varied depending on the market, with Japanese models often featuring a higher level of standard equipment compared to North American versions.
Chassis & Braking
The Accord IV Coupe utilized a front independent suspension with coil springs and a rear independent suspension, also with coil springs. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, offering good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. An anti-lock braking system (ABS) was available as an option, enhancing safety by preventing wheel lockup during hard braking. The chassis was designed to provide a good balance of rigidity and weight, contributing to the car’s overall handling and stability.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Accord IV Coupe 2.2 i 16V was generally well-received by automotive critics. It was praised for its reliability, comfortable ride, and relatively sporty styling. Compared to other coupes in its class, such as the Toyota Celica and Nissan NX, the Accord offered a more spacious interior and a reputation for long-term durability. Fuel economy was considered good for its time, averaging around 28 mpg in combined driving. However, some critics noted that the car’s handling wasn’t as sharp as some of its competitors, and the engine’s performance wasn’t particularly exciting.
Legacy
The F22A7 engine, while not a groundbreaking design, proved to be remarkably durable and reliable. Many examples of the Accord IV Coupe 2.2 i 16V are still on the road today, a testament to Honda’s engineering prowess. The engine is known for its ability to withstand high mileage with proper maintenance. In the used car market, these Accords are often sought after by enthusiasts looking for a classic Japanese coupe that is relatively affordable and easy to maintain. The 2.2 i 16V variant represents a sweet spot in the fourth-generation Accord lineup, offering a good balance of performance, features, and reliability.
