Readers' Rides: Remi's Honda Civic Coupe

Last week, Dakota showed us his modified Subaru Impreza, which you guys were keen to discuss in the comments section. This time, it's the turn of Remi who submitted his Honda Civic to Readers' Rides after being inspired by Jamie's recent M3 story.

Few cars spark more debate than the Civic - even we've done our fair share of stoking the flames. That being said, CT is an all-inclusive resort; if you love your car, we love it too. So Remi, tell us your story...

As a car enthusiast who isn't really understood by his friends and family, I could relate to Jamie. The amount of effort he has put into his M3 is a great source of inspiration.

I got my driver's license in January, and despite being a student I didn't want to spend my money on a first ride I wouldn't like. It had to suit my 'car lover' spirit, and I had already spent months looking for used cars. I wanted something affordable, reliable, great looking and easy to service, but on top of all that I wanted something fun to drive. It was a challenge, but Japanese cars really stood out.

Eventually someone suggested a Civic Coupe. I looked them up and found they had everything I expected from my first car, so when I found this black '97 Civic Coupe for a decent price, it felt perfect. I bought it on the spot. It already had a few mods - exhaust, suspension, rims and front lip - which meant I wouldn't need to invest in these.

When I finally got behind the wheel to test-drive it, I instantly fell in love and knew I wanted this car. The twin loop muffler gave it a nice deep growl when idling and under heavier loads it transformed into a satisfying higher-pitched roar. I found the 1.6 DOHC - which was said to have a modest 120hp with mods - really nervous and responsive, like it was willing to go all the way up to the 7000rpm redline anytime I wanted. And because it sat lower, it felt almost like a go-kart. The only flaw was the power steering not being sensitive enough.

I love garage days spent working on the car. Recently I've fitted a short-shifter and Sparco bucket seat with OMP harness. I love going out late at night, when there's nobody else, just for the sake of driving. I equally enjoy going all-out on twisty roads when the mood takes me.

That's how I free my mind of everyday problems, and that's why I love my Honda. No matter what happens, it's always there to have fun with. It forgives my mistakes - all the missed shifts when I was learning to heel-toe or all the unintended sideways action when I'm cornering too fast. It never lets me down. I know it will, one day... but I'll do my best to save it. I can't let a car with so many memories go to the scrap heap.

By the way, despite the bad name Honda drivers have, I respect all car enthusiasts. I remember ending up next to a Lambo at a traffic light one night. I revved my little four-banger and gave the owner a thumbs up, to which he replied by revving his V12, giving me the 'not bad' face and a thumbs up in return. That's what I like to see!

The next car I'd like to own is a Silvia S14a that I'd ideally buy stock and build myself to make it a clean weekend warrior ride. Handling a turbo RWD properly might take a while to learn, but it should be fun! I also like the GT86/BRZ, especially since it's apparently a great trackday car, but it's too expensive for me at the moment.

If you want your car featured on Readers' Rides, email darren.cassey@carthrottle.com with a pic and a few words explaining why you love it so much. If we like it, we'll feature it!