PollyCranopolis
10+ year member
Bees!
Last time I drove it fast before I sold it I was racin my buddy coming down I68 (same stretch as above) in his parents late model Chrysler Sebring. Hit about 125 in the Civic, maintained a 2-3 car length gap on him the whole way down, but gained nothing. Apparently those Chryslers Rev limit at around 120-125, which is the only reason I didnt get smoked. Keep in mind, this was going down a pretty steep grade, wide open in 5th, with the pedal to the floor. The fastest I was ever able to make it up the opposite way was around 90mph, in 4th. Between 125-30 the Civic would act crazy as well, but I dont think it was a rev limiter. Just seems like the engine would begin to lope, like its wasnt getting enough fuel. If you punch on the gas a couple times, it would kick back in momentarily, but then drop back out. Regardless, looking back I feel sort of stupid for driving the thing like that with street tires, and wheel shimy. I just imagine hitting a baseball-sized rock with my tire going that fast, and it send shivers down my spine. Havent taken my 03' EX over 100. At that speed it's at almost 6500rpm, and doesnt look like it has much more room to go anyway. I'm guessing Honda set the 5th gear ratio different on the later model's, perhaps to spread out tourqe? (I have a good bit more power with 5th at lower speeds than im used to in a 4 clylinder.)
