Engine Build
 

new to the import scene what im looking for is a ek style civic, not sure if im looking for a hatch or a coupe yet, im also looking for 300-350 whp and also looking to turbo i have 6 grand as of right now. i guess the question is what would be my best option? buy a car thats already moded or should i just buy a stock cheaper civic and have the motor built by a shop? also looking for a good shop. im curently living in hamilton.

I would build the car from stock so I know exactly what's been done. You never know what people will tell you just to sell their car. It'll cost more but it'll likely save you some headaches in the future.

Most definitely build. Built is always better than bought. Now with your budget, it may just be a little tight. Could keep the d series, or if you get a hatch, get a d16y8/d16z6 throw a vitara kit at it and turbo. You will go over your budget, but that's just the price you pay to play.

$6000 would be enough to do a swap and a turbo it, if you did most of the work yourself.

Realistically, a swap costs $3000 (give or take, depending on which engine goes in) and a good turbo kit will cost $3000 (give or take, depending on which kit you use).

There are also other necessary expenses that go along with boosting a car, such as a good clutch, a fuel system, ecu modification and OBD conversion and of course tuning.

On a stock GSR engine 300whp is easily attainable on relatively low boost (10psi or so) and is safe for a stock engine.

+1 for Listen to WHATEVER ZEEMAN SAYS lol.

Personally I'd buy the car. It will cost a lot to build it, and it might never get completed. If all else fails... buy a b20, proper cams, better pistons and rods, and turbo it. Theres so many options realistically.
-B