One BIG issue is that the engine can't rev over 7200rpm Where is the fun in that
Other than that there is the fact that the Ford Mustang 302 V8 makes more NA hp/liter than a civic Si... that sheit just sad
Being very fortunate to have a Honda that revs well past 8000rpm I can tell you that these engines sound their best as the revs past 7500k, so to just slap an intake and exhaust on the thing and expect it to scream like a b18c is wishfull thinking.
Also mentioned is the tuning potential of the Masdaspeed, want 50 more horses? Just up the boost, possibly add a FMIC, 50 more horses in the Honda not going to be that simple... but clearly the Honda would benefit immensely from better tires and upgraded suspension.
But for cars that supposedly cost the same, tested as they come from the factory, I'm afraid I'd take the Mazda (I'd swap out that grill though
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