There is a big difference between the ZETEC and VTEC. The main difference is valve timing and w/ i-VTEC they also control cam timing. Honda has the upper hand when it comes to high performance engines. When you can have a 1.6L engine produce 160hp and 111 ft.-lbs. of torque stright from the factory floor you are doing a great job. Also think that these engines came out in the late 80's early 90's.
Now do take me wrong, I love my ZETEC with all it's torque.The only reason I envy the Honda engines is the ablitity to change valve timimg during high revolution operation. If our engines had this feature, we would be something the f*@$ with.
