Hey car enthusiasts! Ever dreamed of transforming your classic ride into a head-turning masterpiece? Well, if you're lucky enough to own a '87 Honda Civic, you're in for a treat! This iconic car is a fantastic platform for modifications, offering endless possibilities to personalize and enhance your driving experience. Whether you're into performance upgrades, aesthetic enhancements, or a blend of both, this article is your go-to guide for everything '87 Honda Civic modifications. Let's dive into the world of customization and explore some of the coolest mods that will make your Civic truly stand out from the crowd! Buckle up, and let's get started!

Performance Upgrades: Unleashing the Beast Within Your '87 Civic

Alright, gearheads, let's talk about making your '87 Honda Civic a true performer! This section is dedicated to all things related to boosting your car's power, handling, and overall driving dynamics. Performance upgrades are all about enhancing what's under the hood and making your Civic a blast to drive. We'll cover everything from engine swaps and suspension upgrades to braking systems and exhaust modifications. Get ready to transform your classic Civic into a nimble and powerful machine. Remember, the key to a successful performance build is planning and quality components. Don't skimp on parts, and always prioritize safety and reliability. So, let's explore the exciting world of performance upgrades and turn your '87 Civic into a street-legal rocket!

Engine Swaps and Tuning: Power Unleashed

One of the most exciting ways to breathe new life into your '87 Honda Civic is through an engine swap. This involves replacing the original engine with a more powerful and modern alternative. There are several popular choices for engine swaps, each offering its own set of advantages. The B-series engines, like the B16A or B18C, are popular choices because they offer a significant power increase and are relatively easy to install. K-series engines, such as the K20 or K24, are also becoming increasingly popular, providing even more power and modern technology. Before embarking on an engine swap, make sure you research the compatibility of the chosen engine with your Civic's chassis, transmission, and other components. You'll also need to consider the supporting modifications, such as upgraded engine mounts, wiring harnesses, and a new ECU (Engine Control Unit). Once the engine swap is complete, proper tuning is essential to optimize the engine's performance and ensure it runs smoothly. Tuning involves adjusting the engine's fuel and ignition maps to match the new engine and any other performance modifications. A professional tuner can help you fine-tune your engine for maximum power and efficiency.

Suspension Upgrades: Cornering Confidence

Upgrading your '87 Honda Civic's suspension is crucial for improving handling and ride quality. A well-sorted suspension system can transform your car's cornering abilities, making it feel more planted and responsive. There are several types of suspension upgrades available, each offering different levels of performance and adjustability. Coilovers are a popular choice, as they allow you to adjust ride height and damping, giving you the ability to fine-tune your car's handling characteristics. Lowering springs are another option, providing a more aggressive stance and improved handling. However, they may not offer the same level of adjustability as coilovers. Sway bars, also known as anti-roll bars, are another essential suspension upgrade. They help reduce body roll during cornering, improving stability and handling. When selecting suspension components, it's important to consider your driving style and the intended use of your car. For street driving, a comfortable ride and good handling are essential. For track use, you may want a stiffer suspension setup for maximum performance. Remember to always have your suspension properly aligned after making any modifications.

Braking System Upgrades: Stopping Power

Upgrading your braking system is critical for both safety and performance. The stock brakes on the '87 Honda Civic may not be sufficient for the increased power and handling capabilities resulting from other performance upgrades. Upgrading your brakes will give you the stopping power you need to handle any situation. There are several ways to improve your braking system. Upgrading to larger brake rotors and calipers will increase stopping power and reduce brake fade. Performance brake pads provide better stopping power and resist fade compared to stock pads. Braided stainless steel brake lines improve brake feel and reduce the risk of brake line failure. When upgrading your brakes, it's essential to choose components that are compatible with your car's existing braking system. You should also bleed your brakes after installing new components to remove any air from the system. Proper brake maintenance, including regular inspections and pad replacement, is essential for ensuring your brakes work effectively.

Exhaust System Upgrades: Breathing Freely

An upgraded exhaust system can improve your '87 Honda Civic's performance by reducing backpressure and allowing the engine to breathe more freely. A less restrictive exhaust system can also increase horsepower and torque, providing a noticeable performance boost. There are several components to consider when upgrading your exhaust system. A performance header replaces the factory exhaust manifold and improves exhaust flow. A cat-back exhaust system replaces the exhaust system from the catalytic converter back, often including a larger diameter pipe and a performance muffler. Upgrading your catalytic converter to a high-flow or test pipe can also improve exhaust flow. When selecting an exhaust system, consider the sound level and your local noise regulations. Some exhaust systems are louder than others, and you may want to choose an option that strikes a balance between performance and noise. Installation of an exhaust system may require some welding and fabrication, so consider having it professionally installed or finding a bolt-on kit. Remember to match your exhaust upgrades with other performance modifications for maximum results.

Aesthetic Enhancements: Making Your '87 Civic a Head-Turner

Alright, let's talk about making your '87 Honda Civic look as good as it performs! Aesthetic enhancements are all about personalizing your car and making it reflect your unique style. Whether you're aiming for a sleek, modern look or a classic, vintage vibe, there are plenty of options to choose from. From body kits and paint jobs to wheels and interior upgrades, we'll explore some of the most popular and effective ways to transform your Civic's appearance. Get ready to turn heads and make a statement with your beautifully customized ride! The key to successful aesthetic modifications is choosing quality components and paying attention to detail. Take your time, do your research, and don't be afraid to experiment with different looks until you find the perfect style for your '87 Honda Civic!

Body Kits and Aerodynamics: Shaping the Look

A body kit can completely transform the look of your '87 Honda Civic, giving it a more aggressive and stylish appearance. Body kits typically include front and rear bumpers, side skirts, and sometimes a spoiler. There are many different body kit styles available, from subtle upgrades to more extreme designs. When choosing a body kit, consider the overall look you want to achieve and the quality of the kit. Make sure the kit is made from high-quality materials and fits your car properly. Aerodynamic modifications, such as a front lip spoiler, rear wing, or diffuser, can improve your car's appearance and reduce drag. These modifications can help your car cut through the air more efficiently, resulting in better performance and fuel economy. However, it's important to consider that some aerodynamic modifications can negatively affect your car's handling, so it is essential to do your research before purchasing these add-ons. Proper installation is crucial for ensuring your body kit and aerodynamic modifications look good and perform as intended. Consider having a professional install these components to guarantee a seamless fit and finish.

Paint and Graphics: Making a Statement

A fresh paint job is one of the most significant aesthetic enhancements you can make to your '87 Honda Civic. It can instantly transform your car's appearance and make it look like new. When choosing a paint color, consider your personal style and the overall look you're trying to achieve. You can choose from a wide range of colors, from classic shades to bold, eye-catching hues. Consider the paint type, such as acrylic lacquer, enamel, or urethane, each with different durability and finish characteristics. Graphics and decals can add a unique touch to your Civic, allowing you to express your personality and style. You can choose from various graphics, such as racing stripes, custom designs, or sponsor logos. When applying graphics or decals, ensure the surface is clean and properly prepared. If you're not confident in your ability to paint or apply graphics, it's best to hire a professional. This will ensure a high-quality finish and help prevent costly mistakes. Before committing to a paint job or graphic design, consider how these changes will impact the overall look of your Civic. Plan your design carefully to create a cohesive and visually appealing aesthetic.

Wheels and Tires: The Perfect Stance

Wheels and tires can significantly impact your '87 Honda Civic's appearance and performance. Upgrading to aftermarket wheels can instantly improve your car's look and give it a more aggressive stance. When choosing wheels, consider the size, style, and offset. The size of the wheels will affect the appearance and handling of your car. The style of the wheels should complement the overall look you're trying to achieve. The offset of the wheels determines how far they sit inside or outside the wheel wells. Matching the right tires to your wheels is essential for optimal performance and safety. Choose tires that are the correct size and load rating for your car. Consider the type of tire, such as all-season, summer, or performance, depending on your driving needs. Proper tire inflation is essential for optimal performance and fuel efficiency. Regular tire rotations and balancing are also essential for extending the life of your tires and ensuring a smooth ride. Always consult a professional when selecting wheels and tires to ensure compatibility with your car and desired performance characteristics.

Interior Upgrades: Comfort and Style

Don't forget the inside! Interior upgrades can enhance your '87 Honda Civic's comfort, style, and overall driving experience. Start with the seats, upgrading to sport seats for better support and a more aggressive look, or recovering the original seats with new materials. Upgrade your steering wheel for a more comfortable and stylish driving experience. Consider a smaller diameter steering wheel, which can improve steering feel. Adding aftermarket gauges can provide you with essential information about your car's performance. Install gauges such as a tachometer, oil pressure gauge, and water temperature gauge. Sound system upgrades are a great way to improve your driving experience. Install a new head unit, speakers, and amplifiers to create a high-quality audio system. Adding interior trim can personalize your Civic and add a touch of luxury. Use materials such as carbon fiber, aluminum, or wood. Remember that the interior is where you spend most of your time, so it's worth investing in upgrades that enhance comfort and style. Take your time to select the perfect components and create an interior that complements your personal taste and driving needs.

Customization Tips and Considerations

Before you start, here's some friendly advice to make sure your '87 Honda Civic transformation goes smoothly. Always research and plan your modifications. Understand what you want to achieve and the components required. Set a budget and stick to it, as modifications can quickly become expensive. Prioritize safety and reliability, choosing high-quality components and professional installation when necessary. Always comply with local regulations and ensure your modifications are street legal. Join online forums and communities to learn from other Civic enthusiasts, share ideas, and find inspiration. Document your progress with photos and videos to track your modifications and share them with the community. Most importantly, enjoy the process and have fun customizing your '87 Honda Civic! Turning your classic car into a personalized masterpiece is an exciting journey. So, gather your tools, embrace your creativity, and get ready to transform your '87 Honda Civic into a true work of art! Happy modifying!