Originally posted by sl0 t3g
you standard civc will come with a single cam engine, and that is offered in two flavors, VTEC and Non-VTEC, VTEC of course if preferred. If you go with an Si, this will give you the B16 DOHC VTEC engine to start with. if i had a choice, i would go with the Si if i got a civic, purely because the b16 is a good platform to start out with and respond pretty well to turbocharging.
your standard integra will come with a DOHC Non-VTEC engine, even the base model RS. RS/LS/GS are all the same engine B18A1/B1 depending on the year, just different interior trims, and have the longest stroke of all integra motors,. which means better tq #'s mod-for-mod. The B18A1/B1 engines respond well to turbo charging, relatively low compression 9.2:1 makes it an excellent platform. The GS-R B18C1 is the step up from that, stock 170hp 129lb-ft DOHC VTEC engine. 9.8:1 c/r also makes this a magnificent platform for turbocharging. The B18C5 which comes in the Integra Type R is more for all motor applications, 195hp and 130lb-ft is still stout for a 1.8l engine, pretty much ready to whoop ass out of the box. 
I know this thread isn't about turbo charging or all motor, but these are just examples of the versatility of each car. Personally i would go with a 97-00 Integra LS and boost it. There are other options tho, like you could get a gs-r swapped EK or EG hatch, throw a 75 shot on it with the proper fuel upgrades and you prolly touch 13's, or even turbo that!! just depends on what you want, honda's are very VERY versatile.
thanks a lot. I always liked the civic coupes for some reason though. I dont know where I am going to buy one. I went to autoway honda and see what they had. they give a warranty and everything but they are about 1500 or so more money than private sellers but with a private seller you always have the risk (espically with a honda I belive) of somebody that beat on the car or did something harmful
but I think i'm going to go with the coupe and work off of that
expect a bad ass suspension set up and very good handling car
