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Acura EL: two generations, engine and what to check when buying
The Acura EL is a compact sedan assembled in Canada at Honda's Alliston plant and sold exclusively in Canada. It's based on the Honda Civic but with more luxurious features. We'll look at both generations, the engine, and what buyers need to know.
EL in brief
The Acura EL was the first Acura assembled and sold in Canada. It's essentially a Honda Civic with upscale features: a different front end, rear, headlights, and interior. It was popular in Canada—during its first full year of sales, it accounted for 51% of all Acura sales in Canada, and from 1997 to 2003, it was the best-selling Acura model.
The EL replaced the four-door Acura Integra, which struggled in Canada. In 2006, it was replaced by the Acura CSX, also sold exclusively in Canada. Since this car wasn't sold in Europe, it's quite rare in Lithuania.
Generations — what's the difference
The first generation (1997–2000) is based on the same-generation Honda Civic but with a different front end, boot, headlights, and interior details. It was also exported to Japan as the second-generation Honda Domani.
The second generation (2001–2005) is based on the seventh-generation Civic. It got a 1.7-litre engine, different headlights, and some comfort features, such as a leather interior. In 2004, the car was refreshed: it got new headlights, a front bumper with vents, and more speakers.
Engines and gearboxes
The first iteration featured a 1.6-litre SOHC VTEC engine producing 127 hp at 6600 rpm and 145 Nm. This engine matched the American Civic EX in terms of power.
The second iteration used a 1.7-litre SOHC VTEC engine, which also produced around 127 hp but offered more torque. The gearbox could be manual or automatic, so check the specific type when buying.
What to check when buying a used EL
The most important thing is corrosion: Canadian winter salt damages sills, wheel arches, and underbody parts. Inspect the floor and underbody for any signs of accidents.
Inquire about engine maintenance (oil changes, timing belt replacement) and check if all electrical functions (windows, mirrors, sunroof) work. This model wasn't sold in Europe, so some body parts differ from European Civics.
Trim levels
EL trim levels varied by generation; we list the main ones below.
Base
1997–2000The base first-generation trim.
- CD player and air conditioning
- 1.6-litre SOHC VTEC engine
- Often came with a sunroof
Sport
1997–2000The sportier first-generation version.
- Light-alloy wheels
- From 1999 — heated folding mirrors and sunroof
- Refreshed facelift
Premium
1997–2000Best-equipped first-generation version.
- Single front seats
- Decorative spoiler
- All Sport trim equipment
Touring
2001–2005Base second-generation spec.
- 1.7-litre SOHC VTEC engine
- Electrically heated, power-adjustable mirrors
- Cruise control
Premium (2 karta)
2001–2005Better-equipped second-generation version.
- Single cabin with heated front seats
- Electric sunroof
- From 2003 — automatic climate control
EL comparison by generation
| Base (1 karta) | Premium (1 karta) | Touring (2 karta) | Premium (2 karta) | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Who's it for? | The everyday compact sedan | Comfort in the first-gen body | The backbone of the second-gen | Top spec in the second-gen |
| Engine | 1.6 VTEC | 1.6 VTEC | 1.7 VTEC | 1.7 VTEC |
| Power (approx.) | 127 hp | 127 hp | 127 hp | 127 hp |
| Price in the used market (relatively) | € | € | € | €€ |
For most buyers, the best choice is the second-gen EL Premium with leather and sunroof, but first and foremost, check the corrosion and service history.
Pros
- The reliable Honda Civic foundation
- More kit than your average Civic
- Economical VTEC engine
- Simple and cheap to maintain
Cons
- Never sold in Europe — parts differences
- Canadian market cars are prone to rust
- Old car, limited safety
Frequently asked questions
Is the Acura EL the same as the Honda Civic?
Essentially, the EL is a Civic with higher-grade kit and a different front, rear, and interior. Some body details also differ.
Why is the EL only sold in Canada?
The Acura EL was created specifically for the Canadian market, as the four-door Acura Integra didn't sell well there. It was assembled at the Honda Alliston plant in Canada.
What replaced the EL?
In 2006, the EL was replaced by the Acura CSX, also sold only in Canada.
Updated 2026-10-21 · Trim levels and equipment vary by market and model year — check the equipment of the specific car. · Translated automatically
