Honda Civic Si EM1
1999-2000
The EM1 Si embodied Honda's commitment to affordable performance through engineering excellence rather than brute force. Its high-revving VTEC engine and lightweight construction created a pure driving experience that prioritized driver engagement over straight-line speed.
Quick Take
The EM1 Civic Si was Honda's return to the Si nameplate after a brief hiatus, featuring the legendary B16A2 VTEC engine. This lightweight coupe offered pure driving enjoyment with razor-sharp handling and the iconic VTEC crossover at 5,600 RPM.
Best For
Key Strength
VTEC Magic
Watch For
Power Deficit
The Story
Heritage & Legacy
Following the legendary EF and EG Si models, the EM1 marked Honda's return to the Si formula after the EK generation focused more on practicality. It represented the culmination of Honda's naturally aspirated performance philosophy before the brand shifted toward turbocharging.
Design Philosophy
Honda designed the EM1 around the principle of minimalist performance, stripping away unnecessary weight while maximizing structural rigidity. The focus was on creating a balanced chassis that could fully exploit the VTEC engine's high-rpm power delivery through precise handling dynamics.
The Driving Experience
Engine Character
The B16A2 engine comes alive above 5,600 RPM when VTEC engages, transforming from a mild-mannered commuter motor into a screaming performance engine. The linear power delivery builds steadily to the 8,000 RPM redline, rewarding drivers who keep it in the upper rev range.
Chassis Dynamics
The EM1's lightweight construction and sport-tuned suspension create incredibly precise handling with minimal body roll. The quick-ratio steering provides excellent feedback, while the chassis remains composed even when pushed hard through corners, though lift-off oversteer can catch inexperienced drivers off guard.
Sound Signature
The B16A2 produces Honda's signature VTEC wail, with a distinctive metallic scream above 6,000 RPM that's immediately recognizable to enthusiasts.
Strengths & Tradeoffs
Defining Strengths
The B16A2 engine is a masterpiece of naturally aspirated engineering, delivering 160hp at 7,600 RPM with an intoxicating 8,000 RPM redline. The VTEC crossover at 5,800 RPM provides a dramatic power surge that feels like a turbo kick, accompanied by one of the best engine notes in automotive history.
The EM1's double-wishbone suspension and near-perfect weight distribution create a handling experience that modern hot hatches struggle to match. The steering is telepathic, the chassis balanced, and the car rewards precise inputs with surgical accuracy through corners.
Honest Tradeoffs
At 160hp, the EM1 feels underpowered by modern standards, requiring aggressive driving to extract performance. The torque curve is peaky, demanding high revs and frequent gear changes to maintain momentum.
The interior features hard plastics, minimal sound deadening, and basic amenities that feel spartan compared to contemporary vehicles. Road noise, wind noise, and overall NVH levels are poor by today's standards.
Ideal Owner
Perfect for driving enthusiasts who appreciate naturally aspirated engines and don't mind working for their performance. Best suited for those who understand that engagement matters more than raw power.