The Accord V-6 Coupe with 6-speed manual transmission uses a unique version of the 3.5-liter V-6. In place of the i-VTEC cylinder heads that incorporate Variable Cylinder Management (VCM) technology for enhanced fuel economy, the performance-oriented 6-speed V-6 Coupe has VTEC cylinder heads that operate all six cylinders under all driving conditions. The engine switches between two different intake valve profiles based on the operating conditions to deliver superior low- and mid-range power, while achieving the same peak 268 horsepower and 248 lb-ft. torque figures found in the automatic transmission version with VCM. The engine also features a variable intake manifold (constructed of lightweight magnesium) to improve low- to mid-range torque.
VTEC® (Variable Valve Timing and Lift Electronic Control) VTEC® operates the engine's 12 intake valves in two distinct modes. At low engine speeds, the intake valves follow low lift and relatively short duration cam profiles. At high engine speeds the valves switch to high-lift, long-duration mode to deliver the best volumetric efficiency. The V-6 with 6-speed manual transmission has a VTEC changeover point that occurs at approximately 5000 rpm.
Intake and Exhaust Tuning The intake and exhaust systems on the Accord Coupe V-6 with six-speed manual transmission feature exclusive intake and exhaust tuning for sporty sounding performance. The intake is designed to resonate a unique performance sound at mid and high rpms, while the exhaust is designed to convey a low, powerful note at low to mid rpm.
Close-Ratio 6-Speed Manual Transmission While most Accord V-6 models have a 5-speed automatic transmission, the EX-L V-6 Coupe is also available with a close-ratio 6-speed manual transmission. This short-throw unit is designed to take advantage of the high power and torque of the new Accord V-6 engine and give enthusiast drivers maximum control.
Substantially lighter than the automatic transmission, the 6-speed manual features a high-pressure die-cast aluminum-alloy transmission housing to save weight. High-strength steel gears are used, and the shafts are hollow, netting a further reduction in weight.
Closely spaced ratios help provide stronger acceleration by keeping engine revs up closer to the engine's horsepower peak. A reverse lockout feature prevents the transmission from accidentally being shifted into reverse while the car is moving forward.
The Accord's manual transmission is matched with a compact clutch unit that is self-adjusting for consistent pedal stroke and load throughout its service life. A dual-mass flywheel cuts down the transfer of engine vibration into the cabin and provides increased comfort during shifting and helps to reduce noise.
