Hey there guys, Im a total newbie at dressing up an engine but Ive got a car show coming up and I really need advice on how to help my engine get points for the way it looks. I strictly need advice on the "show" portion of the engine until I save up for a complete swap. I have a 97 Civic DX but were modifying some parts (like the Intake Manifold to the EX version).

So far I have:

Chrome Intake Manifold
Chrome Valve Cover
Polished Intake with filter
Chrome Headers
Chrome Oil Catch
Chrome Strut Bar
Anodized Blue Battery Tie
Anodized Blue Oil Cap
Ignition Wires
Steel Braided Hosing
Polished Fuel Rail

My question is, what other parts am I missing that is viewable when you open the engine to make a decent looking engine bay? Thanks in advance for all your help!

 

There is so much you can do. Delete a/c, delete p/s, delete cruise control, brake line tuck.

It is a complete waste of money if you plan on swapping. You will have to buy all new things for the new motor as nothing will swap over unless you buy another D series.

 

So deleting those things would make the engine bay cleaner looking?

 

Yes, here are before and afters of my engine bay. Try to ignore the engine differences I have pulled A/C, deleted, P/S, and deleted cruise control.

Before (basically stock):



Now (ignore the spool of wire in the passenger side corner of the bay):