Alright, I have an '03 civic ex, 5 speed (of course). The only thing I've done is put in a new head unit. Nothing to the engine, exhast, nothing at all. I have between 300 and 400 bucks to spend. I want more power, but don't want to lose fuel efficiency too much. What does everyone think I should do? Any advice would be very much appreciated. Thanks.

 

AEM CAI and header if you can fit it in your budget.

 

Headers, Intake, exhaust. You choose they are all good places to start. You should be able to pick up some quality headers and an intake for 300-400. If it were me Id go with some DCsports headers and an AEM CAI or SRI whichever you prefer. If you're not sure of the difference between a CAI and a SRI the search button is your best friend...

 

Ditto!

 

lower that sucker first

 

lol, yeah cause that will give it like a 20+ hp boost, hahahaha.

 

Installing an aftermarket suspension provided the most notable improvement so far in my car. Don't knock it till you've tried it. Of course it won't add horsepower, but it'll make driving a Civic a lot more fun

 

did i say it will add hp? no. suspension is key and will provide more noticable difference. your civic will look nicer while you can save up for either a swap, boltons, or forced induction.

 

Since you have a D17 engine which is also know as the "bastard child of Honda engines" I would do other projects. Because any bolt on products (I/H/E) will not add a noticeable amount of horsepower. If you want horsepower you will need to look into doing internal stuff, turbo, or engine swap.

In my opinion I would put that money in to the suspension/wheel/brake area.

Also I don't think that sounds right to me..."I want more power, but don't want to lose fuel efficiency too much" On almost any product I don't see that happening. Good luck on whatever your decisions are.