Modifying my EP3 v buying a DC5 instead

[h3nde]

Bit of a first world problem this one, but I'm caught between a rock and a hard place.

My EP3 is a great car, well maintained it's whole life, wants for nothing mechanically. I've no logical reason to sell up, but being a petrolhead I'm always wanting for more and I feel my car is lacking in a few departments compared to its JDM cousin.

Basically I'm in two minds as to wherever or not I should spend a few quid basically upping the spec on my EP3 to that of the JDM variant (fitting an LSD, JDM anti roll bars etc) and getting a better pad and disc combo, polybushes and braces fitted to improve all of the areas I feel my car is lacking.

Or the alternative is to buy a DC5 with the funds from selling my EP3 and the money I would have used to modify it. As I believe it's just that little bit better in every department, it looks better, is rare, will probably appreciate in value etc etc.

Just after some opinions if anyone else has been in the same boat or has good/ bad experiences with a DC5. I have the knowledge of the differences between the two but I've never even sat in one! Thanks for reading

[h3nde]

Yeah the steering isn't quite up to scratch if you ask me. Feels like you're wearing gloves I miss the hydraulic PAS my old EK had!

Donbot said:

I haven't driven an EP3, but I'm told that the biggest problem with the cars is lack of steering feel. The hydraulic assist in the DC5 is really nice, and you get good feedback on what the wheels are doing.

[h3nde]

Allegedly fitting an LSD improves steering feel, or so I'm told, but it's £1,000+ commitment that if I make means I keep the EP. Wouldn't be a bad thing though

Butter Face said:

The steering in the EP3 is perfectly fine IMO, a few tweaks make it better but it’s hardly the crap that some people make out.

[h3nde]

Like I said first world problem My head is saying one thing and my heart is saying another. I like my car and there isn't any other car I'd want other than a DC5. In an ideal situation I'd have both but my wallet won't let me

Butter Face said:

I’ve got Bilstein B8 shocks, eibach pro springs, Hardrace inverted track rod ends, camber bolts and a FRSU and I have no complaints about the steering feel or feedback.

I drive many different cars every day and I never get in my EP3 and think it lacks steering feel in any way.

Would I spend twice the amount on another car that is essentially the same under the skin for some hydraulic pas and an LSD? Nah. But choice is a wonderful thing

[h3nde]

Donbot said:

The worst thing I found was the cost of insurance. It was almost 3 times as expensive compared to an EP3.

Insurance cost is a potential deal breaker. I'm up for renewal on the EP soon and I'm looking at paying about £600 fully comp, which I think is only a few hundred quid too much for a 23 year old

I think I'm leaning toward sticking with what I have, as it's a fantastic little car. Maybe getting an LSD fitted once the clutch goes is a good way to go? After all it's better the devil you know, than the devil you don't

I'm definitely not ruling out a DC5, but maybe in a couple more years providing the prices don't go through the roof!

Thanks for your opinions Donbot and Butterface!

[h3nde]

designforlife said:

but if you buy the civic you'll always wonder.

I've already bought one, nearly a year ago