Who/What/Where:
Kenny Freeman; '95 Civic DX; McDonough, Ga.
The Goods:
The original DX engine wasn't good enough for Kenny so one of the first things he did was swap it out for the slightly more powerful D16Z6 along with a ZEX camshaft. Aside from the VTEC powerplant, a '00 VTEC gearbox was also bolted into place making for an entirely different drivetrain. The turbocharged SOHC is outfitted with Scat connecting rods, Vitara pistons, ACL bearings and, of course, all new seals and gaskets. It was all beefed up in the name of a Garrett GT28RS turbocharger, also known as the "Disco Potato." The turbo system is comprised of a Drag exhaust manifold, an eBay intercooler, a Turbo XS blow-off valve along with a Turbonetics Deltagate wastegate and 3-inch custom exhaust piping. Fuel concerns were addressed with RC Engineering 440cc injectors tuned with a Chrome Pro system. Finally, an Exedy Stage 2 clutch and Fidanza 7-pound flywheel transfer all 220 hp and 8 psi worth of turbo power effectively to the pavement.
Kenny addressed more than a simple engine swap and fresh paint though. The chassis rests on KYB AGX shocks and Neuspeed springs hidden behind 15-inch bronze-coated knockoffs, Yokohama tires and AEM brake pads. Handling is further addressed with a pair of Neuspeed antiroll bars at both ends, making for something truly well-rounded.
How It Went Down:
By the time you read this, Kenny will have owned the car for less than six months. It may not have been his for long but this coupe's been around. It began, of course, with the factory single cam but was later upgraded to a non-VTEC B18A1 by the car's previous owner, Kenny's friend. The DOHC B was kept naturally aspirated but was later swapped for yet another single cam, this time a D16Z6. Kenny tells us that when he bought the car it was ready to go. "All it needed was a good oil change and it was ready to go eat some 350Zs," he says.
Kenny is far from done with his coupe. He still plans on modifying the D with a Skunk2 intake manifold and throttle body as well as fitting the head with valve springs, retainers and valves, also from Skunk2. A rear brake conversion, Brembo rotors and Hawk pads are also on the agenda. We're guessing he'll be busy for another six months.
Love And Hate:
EG coupes are few and far between nowadays. We happen to still like the coupe though, not to mention budget-built turbocharged single cams.
Who/What/Where:
Sander Kuipers; '90 Civic 1.6i-VT; Netherlands