High-Revving Torneo SiR-T Is Unlike Any Accord You’ve Driven

The 1998 (sixth generation) Honda Accord made for the US was markedly different from those available overseas. How different? Take a look at this Japanese-market variant currently available for sale on eBay Motors.

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Minor Variations

Prior to this shift in the late 1990s, Hondas had minor variations across markets. Different trim levels accommodated regional tastes, and safety and emissions equipment met local regulations. The most significant differences were in the high-performance variants offered in Japan and Europe. However, the underlying chassis and body structures remained the same across all continents.

In the ‘90s, Honda believed Americans wanted bigger, more comfortable, and easier-to-drive cars than their European and Asian counterparts. The American Accord reflected that. It was 6.5 inches longer than the Japanese version and 8 inches longer than the European version. It was 3.8 inches wider than its Japanese counterpart and 1.4 inches wider than the European Accord. The American Accord had a softer suspension as well for a plusher ride.

Those changes maintained the Accord’s sales success in the US. However, some enthusiasts felt the car lacked the sportiness and sharp handling that set early ‘90s Hondas apart.

Sporty Accords

Those enthusiasts knew sporty Accords existed outside the US under various names. The Honda Torneo SiR-T currently for sale on eBay is a high-performance variant mechanically identical to the Accord SiR-T with minor cosmetic changes. Honda had three different Japanese dealer networks in the ‘90s. The Accord sold at Clio stores, and the Torneo sold at Primo and Verno stores.

The SiR-T was no regular family sedan. Its 2.0-liter four-cylinder engine generated 197 horsepower. By contrast, the American Accord four-cylinder made 135 to 150 horsepower depending on trim level. In true Honda fashion, the SiR-T’s engine was naturally aspirated and high-revving. That engine, combined with the standard five-speed manual transmission, provided a far more dynamic driving experience than the US Accord.

Honda did make a 200-horsepower Accord V-6 for the US. It was a heavier engine tuned for acceleration off the line. The SiR-T, on the other hand, was built for high-strung driving adventures. Its stiff sports suspension rounded out a well-balanced performance package.

Even More Hardcore

The car for sale was upgraded with the even more hardcore suspension from the SiR-T’s replacement, the Accord and Torneo Type R. The Type R’s 2.2-liter engine generates more power at 220 horses, but many prefer the SiR-T’s quicker revving nature. The car offered also comes with lightweight Buddy Club P1 Racing wheels. It’s finished in classic Honda white.

The Torneo is priced right at $11,900. Note that mileage is surprisingly high for a Japanese import at 175,000. A buyer should ensure essential maintenance items, like the timing belt, are addressed.

The Torneo SiR-T is a wholly different beast than the Accord Honda sold here. It’s a sporty take on the family sedan that Americans were deprived of. Now, you can finally experience one for yourself.