General Background: This is a 2001 Honda Civic DX Coupe (EM2). The DX is the stripped model but also the lightest of the 7th generation civics (2405lbs). It comes with the powerless, single cam, but highly fuel efficient D-series engine. Specifically it has the D17a1, which means 1.7 liters and no VTEC. The D-series is somewhat of a bummer in that it does not respond well to bolt-ons, the car you see hear probably makes less than 100whp. The only way to make great power is to either turbo or swap. The good side is the mpg. Leaving the car in 5th gear most of the time, I can average 30mpg or more! This car is very much related to the K-powered Acura RSX and 02'-05' Civic Si hatchback, in that it is the same chassis, but a different engine set-up. This means that swaping one of Honda's greatest achievements, the K-series, isn't a huge obstacle mechanically and relatively easy for an experienced swapper. Unfortunaltey, to be done right a swap generally costs at least 5K and can easily exceed 10K. This is why the 7thgen Civic is one of the least popular Honda chassis to build on a serious level.

Why this car?: I love this car because it is relativley light and unpopular to tune. I like to be different. Though it is a civic, this car has recieved very little attention from the aftermarket community. Also, I get great MPG. It doesn't take much mods to make these cars corner well either.

Goals: I care little about luxury, the focus will be more on agility and daily function, which means a balanced mean of power, handling, and also daily convenience. A few things will be purchased for style, but for the most part everything needs to remain functional. I do not want to create a show car; I beat this thing around corners ever day and in the mountains on occasional weekends. It also must remain reliable with little to no added maintenance. Suspension will be key, and power will have to come later down the road, hopefully in the form of a Supercharged K20 motor (my ideal setup). Other mods will be minor, exterior and interior wise. Overall, I just want a kick ass daily driver that doesn't sceam burnt rice! As far as numbers I would love to have around 250whp combined with minor weight reduction so the car doesn't exceed 2500lbs.

Personal Status: I am only 19 and going to community college. I can only work part time and don't make much extra money. I try to save by snatching up good local deals off the forums. Most of what I want to accomplish won't be realized for quite some time so currently mods will be added slowly but surely.

Thanks if you read my profile! Please comment! (feel free to give honest criticism)