The 2ZZ-GE engine from Toyota with the same basic technology as the vtec engines from Honda (meaning the change to highlift cams at a certain rpm) imo is a much better engine then any vtec motor from honda.

This 1.8L engine can me found in a multitude of vehicules, including some Lotus cars. I would take a 2zz motor over any vtec engine anyday.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toyota_ZZ_engine