The 1.8 civic is actually a 1.5 civic with a flat turbo bypass KHS boostic platform which enhances the output of the engine to that of an 1.8 hence the civic on paper may be faster technically because the premio is not with the same technology. However since it is a true 1.5 the rev range being much balanced gives the premio the edge..
I dont think the topic can get a better technical answer..............................
Can anyone beat this very very technical reply.
Storm?