2003 Acura RSX Manual Review

The 2003 Acura RSX is a sport compact coupe featuring a 2.0-liter i-VTEC engine, available in Base and Type-S trims with manual transmission options. The 5-speed manual (Base) and 6-speed close-ratio manual (Type-S) offer precise shifting, smooth clutch engagement, and responsive gear changes. Below are key sections covering performance, driving experience, features, specifications, maintenance, and ownership costs.

1. Performance Overview 2. Driving Experience 3. Features & Interior 4. Specifications 5. Maintenance & Reliability 6. Ownership Costs 7. Pros & Cons 8. Comparisons 9. Common Issues 10. Verdict

Performance Overview

The 2003 RSX delivers spirited performance with Honda's K-series engines. Base model: 160 hp, Type-S: 200 hp with i-VTEC.

Component	Description
Engine	2.0L K20A3 (Base) / K20A2 (Type-S) i-VTEC inline-4
Transmission	5-speed manual (Base) / 6-speed manual (Type-S)
Horsepower	160 hp @ 6500 rpm (Base) / 200 hp @ 7400 rpm (Type-S)
Torque	141 lb-ft @ 5000 rpm (Base) / 142 lb-ft @ 6000 rpm (Type-S)
0-60 mph	7.5 seconds (Base) / 6.8 seconds (Type-S)
Fuel Economy	24 mpg city / 31 mpg highway (manual)
Suspension	Front MacPherson strut, rear double wishbone
Brakes	Front disc, rear drum (Base) / 4-wheel disc (Type-S)

Driving Experience

The manual transmission provides crisp, short throws with positive engagement.

Clutch: Light pedal feel with smooth take-up; easy for daily driving.
Shifter: Precise, short-throw action; minimal play between gears.
Engine: Linear power delivery; Type-S i-VTEC engages at 5800 rpm for high-RPM rush.
Handling: Responsive steering, balanced chassis; Type-S includes limited-slip differential.
Ride: Firm but compliant; absorbs bumps well for a sport coupe.

NOTE: Type-S manual offers closer ratios for spirited driving; rev-matching recommended for smooth downshifts.

Features & Interior

Well-equipped cabin with sport-oriented design and quality materials.

Seats: Sport buckets with side bolsters; manual adjustments.
Audio: AM/FM/CD stereo with 6 speakers; optional 7-speaker premium system.
Climate: Manual air conditioning; effective cooling/heating.
Controls: Intuitive layout; steering wheel audio controls (Type-S).
Cargo: 15.5 cu-ft hatchback space; rear seats fold flat.
Visibility: Good outward vision; slim pillars minimize blind spots.

Highlight: Type-S includes leather-wrapped steering wheel, alloy pedals, and sunroof.

Specifications

Dimensions: 172.4" L x 67.9" W x 55.1" H; 102.4" wheelbase.
Weight: 2778 lbs (Base manual) / 2822 lbs (Type-S manual).
Engine: 2.0L DOHC i-VTEC; aluminum block/head.
Transmission: 5-speed manual (Base) / 6-speed manual (Type-S).
Fuel Capacity: 13.2 gallons; premium recommended for Type-S.
Tires: 205/55R16 all-season (Base) / 215/45R17 summer (Type-S).
Brakes: ABS standard; Type-S with larger rotors.
Safety: Dual front airbags, side-impact beams.

Maintenance & Reliability

Proven Honda reliability with straightforward maintenance requirements.

Oil changes: Every 7,500 miles with synthetic blend recommended.
Timing chain: No replacement needed under normal conditions.
Clutch: 60,000-100,000 mile lifespan with proper use.
Brakes: Pads every 30,000-50,000 miles; rotors as needed.
Tune-ups: Spark plugs every 100,000 miles; air filter every 30,000 miles.

Reliability: Excellent long-term durability; minimal major issues reported.

Ownership Costs

Affordable to own and maintain with good fuel efficiency.

Cost Category	Estimate
Purchase Price (2003)	$19,500 (Base) / $22,600 (Type-S)
Insurance	Moderate for sport coupe segment
Fuel (annual)	$1,200 (15,000 miles)
Maintenance (annual)	$400-600
Depreciation	Moderate; holds value well
Repairs	Minimal; common parts readily available

Pros & Cons

Balanced assessment of the manual transmission RSX experience.

Pros	Cons
Excellent manual transmission feel	Firm ride may be harsh for some
High-revving i-VTEC engine (Type-S)	Road noise at highway speeds
Precise handling and steering	Limited rear seat space
Honda reliability and build quality	Premium fuel required for Type-S
Practical hatchback design	Basic interior materials in Base model
Good fuel economy for performance	Clutch engagement point vague for beginners

Comparisons

How the RSX manual compares to key competitors in 2003.

vs Honda Civic Si: RSX offers more power, premium features, better interior.
vs Volkswagen GTI: RSX has superior reliability, higher-revving engine.
vs Toyota Celica GT-S: RSX provides more torque, practical hatchback.
vs Nissan Sentra SE-R: RSX offers more refined interior, better shifter feel.
vs Mini Cooper S: RSX has more power, lower maintenance costs.

Verdict: RSX manual balances performance, reliability, and practicality effectively.

Common Issues

Known problems and maintenance considerations for 2003 RSX manual.

Issue	Description	Solution
Third gear grind	Synchro wear in manual transmission	Use Honda MTF fluid; avoid aggressive shifting
Clutch master cylinder	Leaking fluid; difficulty shifting	Replace master cylinder assembly
Engine mounts	Wear causing vibration	Inspect and replace as needed
Strut/shock wear	Reduced ride quality over time	Replace at 60,000-80,000 miles
AC compressor	Failure in high-mileage examples	Replace compressor and receiver drier

Verdict

The 2003 Acura RSX with manual transmission remains an excellent choice for enthusiasts seeking reliability, performance, and practicality. The Type-S variant particularly shines with its 200 hp i-VTEC engine and 6-speed close-ratio gearbox. While showing its age in technology features, the driving experience and build quality continue to impress. Recommended for daily driving and occasional spirited use.

Rating: 4.5/5 stars for manual transmission models

Best For: Enthusiasts wanting reliable performance, practical coupe owners, Honda/Acura loyalists