The B18C is a higher displacement engine with a more aggressive cam, of course it will pull harder at VTEC engagement. As for "popping," I'm not sure what you are talking about. The crossover should be fairly smooth on either engine unless something is wrong.

The B16* and B18C* VTEC solenoids are interchangable and should be identical, only one with a Honda P/N, the other with an Acura P/N.