The Honda Civic Si is a legendary car for those who grew up during the tuner era. The sporty variant of Honda’s humble family compact had more power, more agile handling, and loads of street cred. The 1999 model, in particular—based on the EK sixth generation—was considered peak Civic Si.
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Many die-hard enthusiasts felt let down by the launch of its successor—the EP Civic Si—in 2002. However, as time has gone by, critiques of these cars, like the one recently for sale on eBay in Orlando, Fla., have softened. What remains is a fun-to-drive car in the classic Honda mold.
Unlike previous Civic generations - opens in new window or tab., the 2002 to 2005 EP wasn’t based on any existing Civic you could buy in the US. It was based on the Civic hatchback sold in Europe and Asia. Honda stopped offering that body style in the US after it phased out the EK due to Americans’ aversion to hatchbacks - opens in new window or tab.. As a result, the Civic Si didn’t look like other Civics on the road, which was a departure from previous Civic Si models.
More Than Skin-Deep
Starting with this generation, Honda abandoned its double-wishbone front suspension, replacing it with a standard MacPherson strut - opens in new window or tab. setup. It lost some of Honda’s signature handling finesse, much to the chagrin of enthusiasts.
There’s more bad news. Honda also introduced a new engine family, so the EP Civic Si no longer exhibited Honda’s trademark high-revving redline, with the engine topping out at 6,800 rpm. Yet, there was a bright side. The 2.0-liter four had 160 horsepower and 132 pound-feet of torque, more than previous Civic Si models.
So why consider the EP Civic Si? Because, despite its drawbacks, it’s still a blast to drive.
Most modern cars have their functions set too far on the comfort side, and electronic systems interfere with the direct road feel. The 2002 Civic Si is still a mostly analog experience. It only comes with a manual transmission - opens in new window or tab., has a cable-actuated throttle, and boasts good visibility in all directions without the aid of sensors and cameras.
Even with the MacPherson strut suspension, it carves up corners with verve. And it tips the scales at just 2,750 pounds, a curb weight unburdened by modern equipment that does little to enhance the driving experience.
Is It Reasonably Priced?
Besides, the 1999 to 2001 Civic Si has already skyrocketed in price. The 2002 Civic Si for sale has only 13,971 miles. Examples of the previous-generation Civic Si with that kind of mileage have sold for north of $50,000. By contrast, this EP is asking $19,999.
The interior and engine bay are spotless, as close to new as a 22-year-old car can get. It also appears to be unmodified, the only non-factory pieces being Canadian-market “SiR” badges on the grille and hatch. It appears to have been well-kept, and the seller says it has a clean CarFax report.
Honda built these cars to be cheap and fun. This 2002 Civic Si is a rare gem of a car that you almost never come across anymore.
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This article is meant to provide general guidance only. Automotive maintenance, repair, upgrade, and installation may depend on vehicle-specifics such as make and model. Always consult your owner's manual, repair guide for specific information for your particular vehicle and consider a licensed auto-care professional's help as well, particularly for advance repairs.