1999 Honda Civic Si (EM1) Driving Review: The High-Revving Icon

The Iconic EM1 Honda Civic Si

• 🚗 This video features a 1999 Honda Civic Si (EM1) in Electron Blue Pearl with 115,000 miles, a beloved enthusiast car from the late '90s and early 2000s.
• 💡 The EM1 is powered by a 1.6 L B16 A2 dual overhead cam inline four-cylinder engine producing 160 horsepower, with a redline of 8,000 RPM.
• 🌟 Despite its performance focus, the interior is described as bare bones and basic, with normal Civic steering wheel and seats, offering good space but few distinguishing SI features.

Driving Experience and Performance

• 🚀 The car offers excellent visibility due to its large amount of glass and window real estate, making it incredibly easy to drive without relying on modern camera systems.
• ⚡ Below 6,000 RPM, it feels like a regular Civic, but VTEC engagement above that point brings a significant surge in power and excitement.
• ⚙️ The 5-speed manual transmission has a smooth shifter with a slightly shorter throw, and the clutch is easy to operate with good feel, making rev-matching effortless.
• 💨 With a curb weight of only 2,612 lbs, the 160 horsepower feels substantial, contributing to a light, nimble, and flickable driving experience.

Interior and Design Details

• 🔍 Key giveaways for the SI model include the 8,000 RPM redline on the gauge cluster and the distinctive rear spoiler visible in the rearview mirror.
• 🔊 The audio was recorded with in-ear binaural microphones, recommending headphones for the best listening experience.
• 🧼 The interior, despite 115,000 miles, has worn incredibly well, showcasing the quality of older Honda interiors with only minor scratches on the plastics.

Nostalgia and Value

• 📈 The EM1 Civic Si has seen a significant increase in value, attributed to nostalgia for those who grew up with the car and its engaging driving experience.
• 🏆 The car is considered a