V-TEC too weak

[gxgman]

Hello everyone. I am new to the club and don't know much about streetable modifications for Hondas.
I've been through a 1989 Accord LXi sedan, a 1996 Accord DX sedan, a 1996 Accord EX sedan, and now have a 1997 Accord EX sedan. The DX outperformed the EXes while using only 97 octane gas. If I use less than 89 octane in the EXes, they wouldn't run right or yield good mileage.
The V-TEC engine is a dog at low speeds and off the line. I don't put my foot into it much, so the V-TEC feature does me little good.
The non-V-TEC motor has a higher performance camshaft profile than the basic "economy" profile of the V-TEC motor in the EXes. What can I do to improve the performance without sacrificing economy? I was thinking a mild camshaft may do the trick, but not sure about the fuel and ignition systems ability to compensate for the upgrade. I jsut want it to run at least like the DX did.
Any ideas?
Thanks

[EyesofFreedom]

1...ecu remap2...intake, header and exhaust upgradeOr do 1 and 2 and really see a difference!

[8695Beaters]

Add some new plugs and wires while you are at it. That and what eyes said ought to make you nice and happy (extra power and extra mpg, where's the loss?).

[gxgman]

This helps point me in the right direction.
Although I expect an ECU remap would make significant improvements, I didn't think an air intake would. As you said, both would do well together.
Where would I find a reliable source to modify the ECU? Is one program better than another and still maintain emissions standards? What kind of plugs and wires are better suited and street legal?
I have only stock parts in my Honda to preserve reliability and simplicity, but by no means do I believe they are the absolute best. I'm just not sure which others are better. Thanks for the tips.

[PrimeTimeV6]

Hondata ECU, Pulse Plugs and the biggest set of wires you can find.

[8695Beaters]

You know if all you are looking for is some more torque, a different set of camshafts might be all you need. I'm not sure what is swappable for your engine from another Honda, but an aftermarket cam will do you fine. That would get you out of economy mode and put you above your old DX. Combine that with a drop-in filter, subtle exhaust, and the plugs and wires PrimeTime mentioned, and you will have a plenty fun Accord. Cams aren't the cheapest option, but that seems to be where your power loss lies, so it would make sense to upgrade them first.

[gxgman]

I am curious to find out how other Accord owners feel about the difference in power between the standard 2.2 liter Accord (1995-1997) and the V-TEC Accord. Anyone else have the same thoughts as me?

[Lawless28]

My girl has a 94 accord ex 2.2 v-tec completely stock. It has good power off the line and good midrange. I dont notice a significant difference when v-tec is engaged. It feels about the same as my civic 1.5 non v-tec through high rpms.

[jembr325]

I owned a 1997 Accord EX Vtec and a 1995 non-vtec and found that the acceleration with the vtec was much stronger. That said, I lived much higher in the rpm range (with a big smile on my face).

I agree with Eyes, PrimeTime and Beaters. I noticed a significant hp gains and better gas mileage (under normal driving -- which I almost never did) by adding the best NGK plugs, larger wires (less resistance) an intake and exhaust (headers would be good also as Eyes mentioned).

I didn't notice any significant probelms with bogging at low rpm running a regular fuel grade in the EX -- of course you would notice a significant difference running high octane fuel.

VTECs are just different animals... the power lies high not low. You just have to adjust to new driving habbits -- I had to relearn this again after I bought my latest vtec (traded in a nissan).

[8695Beaters]

My mom had a '97 Accord which I don't think had VTEC. It had a good amount of torque for a 4-cylinder. Her new Accord has more though.