Honda Accord SiR Wagon (CH9)

Honda Accord SiR Wagon (CH9) The Honda Accord SiR is a cult wagon. Regardless of the fact that it only came with a 4-speed automatic transmission, JDM wagonphiles always seem to be raving about it. Perhaps it’s the SiR’s rare H22A “blue top” engine that brings it such fame (H23 block with an H22 head). Or maybe it’s the wagons low production volume and restriction from the U.S. market. Most probably, it’s 197 screaming VTEC horses in a versatile package and the option of all-wheel-drive goodness (CL2).

 Continuing a long tradition of SiR Wagons, the CH9 was produced from 1998 to 2002 and if often thought to be the most attractive of the generations. With a 7,300 rpm redline, and peak power coming at 6,800 rpms, the SiR is a wagon that loves to be revved and flogged. Even with a fairly high redline, the SiR’s 163 torques culminate at just 5,300 (lower than the H22A in the Prelude SiR), allowing for better acceleration. If only Honda would step up and produce a 7th generation Accord SiR (TSX Type-S Tourer in ‘Merican speak), the SiR progeny would continue to prosper.

 First published: September 5th, 2011