Buying a Del Sol. Got questions. Please help?

[Plastic_Fork]

Greets,

I am looking to buy a Del Sol next month and I'm not sure which year I should look for. At the moment, I'm torn between a '95, or a '97 Si. I've done some research on them and I'd have to say the only deciding factor at the moment would be the availability of body kits that fit them. Most body kits I've seen are designed to fit the Sol's with the projection lights ('95 and earlier). I'm just trying to think ahead to make my life a little easier when I get around to modifying the outside eventually.

Also, the '96 and up Si models had brake discs that are an inch larger in diameter than the earlier Si models and the '96 and '97 Si's had the VTEC model steering and suspension which the earlier Si models did not. I'll assume it's just a case of swapping in the parts from the later models onto the older models if I end up with a '95? Or would aftermarket parts make this irrelavent?

My last question is in regards to recalls which I have been unsuccessful in finding any information. Were there any repairs, problems, or recalls on the '95 that were corrected with the production of the '96 and up?

I'll freely admit I'm a newbie as far as car knowledge goes, but I'm interested in learning and would appreciate any input and information regarding my questions. Thanks for the help.

[s2Ksol]

Not sure if you check out www.teamdelsol.com It has great information about the del-Sol.

Why an Si? Are you planning on swapping in a bigger engine? Granted Si's are easier to find then the VTEC models, but just curious as to why you are looking at Si's.

In 1995 Honda introduced Power Door locks, Trunck release, and a low fuel light. Not available in 93/94.

1997 was the last year Honda made the del-Sol. There were a little over 5,000 sols made for that year, so they are pretty rare for 97. There were only 750 VTEC models made for that year. That allows roughly about 2250 S models and 2250 Si models. No one is really sure on the exact number for the S and Si models, but that's a general quess. The 750 is a confirmed number.

The 95 is also kind of sought out year. First year for additional options, but last year for the aux lights. Also the 94/95 VTEC model has the b16a3 with an obd 1 computer and redlines at 8250. The 96/97 VTEC models have the b16a2 with an obd2 computer and redlines at 8000rpm. (Same engine in the 99/00 Civic Si) Both engines produce the same hp, torque, and compression, but different redlines and computer.

www.kaminari.com makes a full bumper without the aux lights, but they do offer a lip to add on the stock bumper for the aux lights. Kaminari doesn't advertise there lip on there site, but it's still available. If you check out www.teamdelsol.com then there is a link to body kits that are available for the sol.

Not sure about the disc breaks and sizing, but I think it wouldn't be a problem swapping them out. I honestly didn't know they changed diameter size. cool. I just remember that the S models have drums in the back.

I can't remember where the recall list is. Maybe on teamdelsol. The rubber gaskets were redesigned in 95 I believe. There was leaking issues in 93/94 gaskest around the targa top.

[whtteg]

Yes he is going to do a B18C1 swap, or maybe if I can talk him into it a B20/vtec

[Plastic_Fork]

s2Ksol, thanks for the reply and the information. I see my pal got back to you on his thread and mine. I am thinking of a B18C1 or a B20/Vtec, but for now I'm focusing on functionality and the car overall. Then again, my friend is also trying his best to talk me into nitrous... on just about anything I own with wheels. But that's why I am hunting for an Si. Basically, it easier to find than the Vtec, will cost less, and the money I save will be about the same amount of money it will cost me to buy my new engine. Plus it has certain features I was looking to have on the Del Sol.

The front projection lights were just a factor as far as a future body kit was concerned. I appreciate the help though. I've decided on a '95 so here goes nothing. Wish me luck on finding one.

[94SolGrl]

with the kits, anything it possible. I've seen sols with aux lights get kits that don't have them.. most people either relocate them to lower down or just cut them off and cap the wires. I've also seen 96-97 sols with aux light kits on, and aux lights in. Anything is possible with the time, money, and patience to get it done.

[Plastic_Fork]

Well, was just looking to save some money. I see more '95 Del Sol's for sale than I do '96 or '97 anyway. Be easier for me to find.