The Honda Rafaga was a mid-size sedan produced by Honda from 1993 to 1997, primarily for the Japanese domestic market (JDM). Positioned above the Accord and below the Inspire/Vigor models, the Rafaga aimed to offer a more stylish and sporty alternative within Honda’s lineup. The 2.0 i variant, equipped with a 160 horsepower engine, represented a key offering in the range, balancing performance with reasonable fuel economy. It was a relatively short-lived model, discontinued as Honda reorganized its sedan offerings. The Rafaga, while not widely exported, showcased Honda’s engineering prowess and design sensibilities of the early to mid-1990s.
Technical Specifications
| Brand | Honda |
| Model | Rafaga |
| Generation | Rafaga |
| Type (Engine) | 2.0 i (160 Hp) |
| Start of production | 1993 year |
| End of production | 1997 year |
| Powertrain Architecture | Internal Combustion engine |
| Body type | Sedan |
| Seats | 5 |
| Doors | 4 |
| Fuel Type | Petrol (Gasoline) |
| Emission standard | Euro 2 |
| Weight-to-power ratio | 8.3 kg/Hp, 121.2 Hp/tonne |
| Weight-to-torque ratio | 7.1 kg/Nm, 140.9 Nm/tonne |
| Power | 160 Hp @ 6700 rpm |
| Power per litre | 80.2 Hp/l |
| Torque | 186 Nm @ 4000 rpm, 137.19 lb.-ft. @ 4000 rpm |
| Engine layout | Front, Longitudinal |
| Engine displacement | 1996 cm3, 121.8 cu. in. |
| Number of cylinders | 5 |
| Engine configuration | Inline |
| Cylinder Bore | 82 mm, 3.23 in. |
| Piston Stroke | 75.6 mm, 2.98 in. |
| Compression ratio | 9.7:1 |
| Number of valves per cylinder | 4 |
| Fuel injection system | Multi-port manifold injection |
| Engine aspiration | Naturally aspirated engine |
| Valvetrain | OHC |
| Kerb Weight | 1320 kg, 2910.1 lbs |
| Fuel tank capacity | 65 l, 17.17 US gal | 14.3 UK gal |
| Length | 4555 mm, 179.33 in. |
| Width | 1695 mm, 66.73 in. |
| Height | 1425 mm, 56.1 in. |
| Wheelbase | 2770 mm, 109.06 in. |
| Front track | 1465 mm, 57.68 in. |
| Rear (Back) track | 1465 mm, 57.68 in. |
| Minimum turning circle (turning diameter) | 11 m, 36.09 ft. |
| 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 brakes | Ventilated discs |
| Rear brakes | Disc |
| Assisting systems | ABS (Anti-lock braking system) |
| Tires size | 205/55 R15 |
| Wheel rims size | 6JJ x 15 |
Powertrain & Engine Architecture
The Rafaga 2.0 i was powered by Honda’s F20A inline-five cylinder engine. This engine was a key feature of the Rafaga, differentiating it from the more common four-cylinder engines found in the Accord. The F20A utilized a single overhead camshaft (OHC) valvetrain and multi-port fuel injection. The engine’s 160 horsepower output at 6700 rpm and 186 Nm (137.19 lb-ft) of torque at 4000 rpm provided a respectable level of performance for its time. The engine’s longitudinal mounting and front-wheel drive configuration were typical for Honda vehicles of this era. The five-speed manual transmission was the standard offering, providing drivers with direct control over the engine’s power. The engine was known for its smooth operation and relatively high-revving nature, characteristic of Honda engines.
Driving Characteristics
The Rafaga 2.0 i offered a balanced driving experience. The 160 hp engine, coupled with the five-speed manual transmission, provided adequate acceleration and responsiveness. While not a sports car, the Rafaga felt more engaging to drive than many of its competitors. The five-speed gearbox was well-matched to the engine’s powerband, allowing drivers to keep the engine in its optimal rev range. Compared to the base model Rafagas with smaller engines, the 2.0 i offered a noticeable improvement in performance. It wasn’t as quick as the V6-powered Inspire or Vigor, but it provided a good compromise between performance and fuel efficiency. The front-wheel drive layout offered predictable handling, although it could exhibit some understeer when pushed hard.
Equipment & Trim Levels
The Rafaga 2.0 i typically came equipped with a reasonable level of standard features. These included power windows, power locks, air conditioning, and a basic audio system. Interior upholstery was typically cloth, with options for upgraded materials available. The dashboard layout was functional and straightforward, with easy-to-read gauges. Optional extras included a sunroof, upgraded audio systems, and alloy wheels. The Rafaga aimed to provide a comfortable and well-equipped interior, although it didn’t offer the same level of luxury as some of its more expensive competitors. The trim level was generally considered mid-range within the Rafaga lineup, offering a good balance of features and price.
Chassis & Braking
The Rafaga 2.0 i featured a MacPherson strut front suspension and a multi-link rear suspension. This suspension setup provided a comfortable ride while maintaining reasonable handling characteristics. The front brakes were ventilated discs, providing good stopping power, while the rear brakes were solid discs. Anti-lock braking system (ABS) was standard, enhancing safety. The Rafaga’s chassis was relatively lightweight, contributing to its nimble handling. The tires were typically 205/55 R15, providing a good balance of grip and ride comfort. The suspension was tuned for a comfortable ride, but it also offered decent body control in corners.
Market Reception & Comparison
The Honda Rafaga 2.0 i was generally well-received by automotive critics in Japan. It was praised for its stylish design, comfortable interior, and engaging driving experience. However, some critics noted that it didn’t quite offer the same level of refinement as its more expensive competitors. Compared to other vehicles in its class, such as the Toyota Camry and Nissan Maxima, the Rafaga offered a more distinctive design and a more engaging driving experience. Fuel economy was comparable to other vehicles in its class, and reliability was generally good, as expected from a Honda product. The 2.0 i variant was considered a good value for money, offering a good balance of performance and features.
Legacy
The Honda Rafaga, while a relatively short-lived model, remains a fondly remembered car among Honda enthusiasts. The F20A engine is particularly well-regarded for its smooth operation and reliability. Today, Rafagas in good condition are becoming increasingly collectible, particularly in Japan. The 2.0 i variant is a popular choice among enthusiasts, offering a good balance of performance and affordability. The Rafaga’s legacy lies in its distinctive design and its contribution to Honda’s reputation for engineering excellence. While it may not have achieved widespread international recognition, the Rafaga remains a significant part of Honda’s history.
