2004 1.7 exhaust

[kyleisthestig]

I have an 04 civic LX with the 1.7 and I want a little bit more aggressive sound from it. Not looking to really make it fast, but I still want to have some fun driving it. I put a CAI (ish) on, I plan on doing exhaust, I'll put in a little bit better of a clutch in sometime next year, do some major suspension work, and I want to get a small tune done. I know that the 1.7 isn't the most desirable motor to modify, but I really like the chassis on it. What are your suggestions on exhaust set ups? I'm fairly new to the import side of the automotive world.

 

[lethal6]

I will start at the top.

- Clutch upgrade is a waste of money if you aren't putting down the power to justify it. If you are replacing because it is worn, just get and Excedy OEM replacement.

- Same goes for full exhaust. It is going to just change the sound basically, so get a good muffler and call it a day. Brand is subjective for the most part. Just search youtube for your car coupled with different popular brands and pick a sound you like. Also, a budget is a good thing to provide here when looking for information. There are varying costs and styles.

- Suspension is the best move here. It will change the way the car feels and handles. The set up is decided based on many factors: what you want out of it, what your goals are as far as height, adjustable, budget, etc.

- Tune is also a waste of money unless you have a LOT of supporting mods that need it or are going with a turbo. These aren't like VW to where they respond very well to a tune. They are built from the factory to get good gas mileage. There isn't any hidden power in there like the detuned VW's that you can squeeze out of them.

 

[kyleisthestig]

Cool, I appreciate the feedback. My last car you could squeeze out another 20 or so hp. from a good tune.

As far as price goes I'm just going to be throwing $500 or so at it every once and a while. I really know nothing about the aftermarket side of civics, so on that, is there a decent after market for the 1.7?

Suspension I'll probably do poly mounts, and poly control arm bushings when I find them. Then I may look into adjustable coilovers, but as of now thats not on my list. I just want a little better performance. I'm considering turning it into an autocross car

 

[XpL0d3r]

If you're considering turning it into an autox car, you'll want suspension performance, not go fast parts. I've never even made it into 3rd gear autocrossing, even on a fast course at an abandoned airstrip.

 

[Mr.Baker]

is there a decent after market for the 1.7?

Realistically and honestly, no.
Do some suspension mods, put some nice wheels on it, drive it and enjoy it.

 

[kyleisthestig]

Sounds good. I have a few project cars. my honda is my daily, just want it to be a little more fun to drive than it is