sluggish takeoff

[8695Beaters]

Check the spark plugs. When I bought my CRX (same motor) it didn't have any power under 3000 RPM. When I pulled the plugs, they were all fouled and one was bent. New plugs solved everything, but make sure the plug wire is pushed in all the way. I missed one by a bit and the car wouldn't start.

[automech]

It sounds like a fuel delivery problem. it would help to know if this happens when the tank is nearly empty...mostly full....or all the time.....or just once in awhile. take a chance and flush your fuel system paying attention to fuel injectors where they are likely to clog. It happens to my friends vehicle (Acura CL) and too bad he have purchased Acura CL Flywheel because the mechanic said so, but its no use. And also have it scanned to see if its leaving any trouble codes on the computer when it does this,that might help a lot, it may turn out to be something real simple on it good luck with it I hope this helps.

[J_Baby60]

I think all of the things mentioned would be the best place to start, and all fairly cheap.

Ask about the flywheel. If it wasnt turned, it could cause the clutch to slip. Also, if they didnt turn it, I wouldnt take my car back to them. Turning the flywheel is a major part of a clutch job, and you shouldnt have to pay for them not doing it.
Change out your spark plugs AND wires. Bad spark could be the culprit.
Run some fuel injector cleaner through your system. Worst case, it doesnt hurt the motor if theyre not clogged up.
Change out the oil and oil filter. Also change out your fuel filter.

All of the above are fairly cheap (spark plug wires are the most expensive), or free.

If those options dont work, change out the fuel pump. More expensive than the other options depending on where you get it, but it could be dirty & clogged up.

Give 'er a try. Best of luck to ya.