Review "Honda Civic EF9 Build in 20 Minutes! Restore SiR II B16A VTEC abandoned for over 13 years"

1991 Honda Civic EF9 Restoration by Mikchey – Full Review

I recently came across a YouTube channel run by a content creator named Mikchey (at least, that’s the name of the channel), where he takes on the full restoration of a 1991 Honda Civic EF9 in a faded blue color.

The car was in pretty rough shape — abandoned for 13 years, with visible rust, dents, and missing parts. The wheels were mismatched, and the overall condition made it look like a lost cause at first glance. However, some cool details stood out: a sporty aftermarket steering wheel and seats, along with additional roll bars for safety.

Opening the trunk revealed a pile of trash and signs of long neglect. But things took a turn when Mikchey popped the hood — the car was equipped with a B16A VTEC engine, a true gem for JDM enthusiasts. It even had an aftermarket intake, which Mikchey promptly replaced as part of the restoration.

He started by removing the fuel tank for a complete cleaning and restoration. He replaced valves, cleaned, and repainted the tank. Then came the braking system — disassembled, sanded down, and painted.

Next up was the cooling system. He checked all the hoses and connections, replacing whatever was worn or damaged.

Once that was done, Mikchey opened the top of the engine to inspect it and carried out a timing belt replacement, tests, and adjustments — bringing that legendary B16A back to reliable running condition.

With the mechanical side in order, he moved on to the exterior. Starting with the front bumper, he removed and sanded most of the body panels. The hood had to be replaced due to extreme rust. He then prepped the body for paint — primer first, followed by sanding to ensure a smooth finish. The new color? White — clean and classic.

While working on the exterior, he restored the headlights and taillights with polishing and deep cleaning. He also blacked out the front grille and swapped the bulbs for LED units.

To give the Civic the JDM style it deserves, Mikchey added a rear spoiler and installed hood pins. Once everything was assembled, he fired up the engine and let that VTEC growl.

Inside, he removed rust spots, sanded everything down, and painted the cabin white for a clean look. He didn’t stop there — a white roll cage and anti-roll bars were added, giving the car serious track-day potential.

He upgraded the front brakes and tackled the entire exhaust system. The wiring was sorted out, interior lights fixed, and a modern radio unit installed.

A new suspension setup was also added to match the performance upgrades. For that final touch, Mikchey painted the valve cover red, and — in a surprising twist — painted the roof red, giving the car a white-on-red two-tone look. With some racing-style decals, the Civic now looks like a proper GT track car.

The video wraps up with a powerful before-and-after comparison, some test drives, and even a few drifts — showcasing the transformation from a rust bucket to a clean, aggressive, track-ready JDM machine.

Watch the full video:

Final Thoughts

This build is absolutely worth the watch. Mikchey brought this Civic EF9 back from the dead and turned it into something truly unique, stylish, and performance-ready. It’s the kind of car that will turn heads anywhere it goes — a true tribute to the JDM spirit.

Did you like it? Now you can share your story by clicking here.

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How Japan Made the World Fall in Love with Turbos

When you think of turbocharged legends, it’s impossible not to picture iconic Japanese machines screaming down a mountain pass or tearing up a racetrack. From the Nissan GT-R to the Toyota Supra, Japan didn’t just adopt turbocharging — it redefined it.

But how did this small island nation spark a global obsession with turbocharged performance?

The Rise of Turbocharged Icons

In the late 1980s and 1990s, Japan’s automakers were in fierce competition, pushing the limits of engineering and design. The result? A golden era of JDM turbo cars that still dominate the tuner world today.

• Nissan GT-R (R32-R34): The Skyline GT-Rs were nicknamed "Godzilla" for a reason — their RB26DETT twin-turbo engines and advanced AWD systems terrorized tracks around the world.

• Toyota Supra MK4: Equipped with the legendary 2JZ-GTE twin-turbo engine, it became the darling of both street racers and dyno kings.

• Mazda RX-7 FD3S: Lightweight, rotary-powered, and twin-turbocharged — this car proved that performance comes in all forms.

These cars weren’t just fast. They were beautifully engineered, easy to tune, and came from a culture that valued innovation and detail.

Why the World Took Notice

Japanese carmakers mastered the balance between power, reliability, and affordability. Turbochargers gave smaller engines the performance of larger ones — and when combined with high-revving motors, agile chassis, and futuristic tech, it was a recipe for automotive addiction.

They also brought this performance to the masses. Unlike many European supercars, Japanese turbo cars were attainable, which only fueled their popularity among gearheads worldwide.

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💡 Did You Know?

The Nissan R32 GT-R was so dominant in motorsport that it was banned from Australian touring car racing after winning every single race in the 1990 season. That’s how wild these turbocharged monsters were.

The Legacy Continues

Fast forward to today, and the love for JDM turbo cars hasn't slowed down. From drifting events to car meets, these machines still turn heads and spark conversations. Enthusiasts everywhere are restoring, tuning, and celebrating the cars that made the '90s unforgettable.

Let’s Hear from You!

What’s your favorite JDM turbo car of all time? Do you own one, or is it still a dream sitting on your garage wall poster? Drop a comment below and tell us your turbocharged story!

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Why the Toyota Soarer Was a Hidden GT Legend

Image: roadsmile.com

When it comes to iconic JDM cars, names like the Supra, Skyline, and RX-7 often steal the spotlight. But there's one grand tourer that quietly carved its own legendary path: the Toyota Soarer. A hidden gem among Japan’s finest, the Soarer blended luxury, performance, and advanced technology—long before many of its competitors caught up.

What Made the Toyota Soarer Special?

Originally launched in 1981, the Soarer was Toyota’s answer to high-end GT (Grand Touring) vehicles. It wasn’t just about power—it was about refinement. With each generation, especially the Z20 and Z30 models, Toyota packed the Soarer with innovations that were years ahead of their time.

Advanced Technology Ahead of Its Era

From digital dashboards in the early '80s to active suspension systems and in-car navigation in the '90s, the Soarer constantly pushed the envelope. The JZZ30 Soarer, in particular, came equipped with the 1JZ-GTE twin-turbo engine, the very same powerplant that JDM fans now revere. This engine delivered smooth, consistent power and made the Soarer a silent highway missile.

Lexus SC400’s JDM Twin

Here’s a fun fact: the Soarer was sold internationally under the Lexus SC400/SC300 name in markets like the U.S. However, true JDM purists know that the Japanese Soarer often came with better trim options, more powerful engine variants, and a distinct styling that set it apart.

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Why It’s Still Underrated

While the Supra and other turbo monsters got the street racing fame, the Soarer quietly built a cult following. It was the car of choice for those who wanted to cruise in comfort but still leave a cloud of tire smoke if needed. Today, clean examples of the Soarer are becoming harder to find—and their value is steadily rising.

Should You Get One?

If you're a JDM fan looking for something different—something with power, class, and rarity—the Toyota Soarer is a top-tier choice. Whether you want to build a street sleeper, a drift car, or just enjoy weekend cruises, the Soarer delivers on all fronts.

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💡 Curiosity: Did you know that the Soarer’s 1JZ-GTE engine is known to handle over 500+ horsepower on stock internals with proper tuning? No wonder it’s a favorite among tuners worldwide.

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What Do You Think?

Have you ever driven a Toyota Soarer or considered owning one? Drop your thoughts, experiences, or dream build ideas in the comments below!

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9 JDM Cars You've Never Heard Of (But Should)

When you think of JDM legends, a few names immediately come to mind: the Nissan Skyline GT-R, the Toyota Supra, the Mazda RX-7, and the Honda NSX. They're the poster cars, the icons that defined a generation. But beyond these familiar titans lies a world of unique and often underrated Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) gems. These are the cars that flew under the radar, the ones enthusiasts whisper about at late-night meets.

Ready to discover a new side of JDM? Here are five cars you've probably never heard of, but absolutely need to know.

1. Toyota Sera

With its futuristic, butterfly-style doors that swing up and forward, the Toyota Sera looks like it drove straight out of a sci-fi movie. Released in the early 90s, this quirky coupe was powered by a 1.5-liter engine and was a showstopper everywhere it went. 

While it shared a platform with the Tercel, the Sera was all about style and engineering flair. It’s a testament to Toyota's willingness to experiment and create something truly unique.

2. Nissan Pulsar GTI-R

Dubbed the "Baby Godzilla," the Nissan Pulsar GTI-R was a homologation special built to dominate rally courses. This tiny terror packed a massive punch: a 2.0-liter turbocharged SR20DET engine and an advanced all-wheel-drive system (ATTESA). 

The result? A subcompact hatchback that could blast from 0 to 60 mph in under five seconds, making it one of the fastest cars of its time. It’s a raw, unfiltered rally machine that offers a pure driving experience.

3. Autozam AZ-1

A true kei car marvel, the Autozam AZ-1 is a tiny, mid-engined sports car with gullwing doors. Yes, gullwing doors on a car smaller than a Miata! Built by Suzuki and sold under Mazda's Autozam brand, this microcar was part of Japan's 'ABC' trio of sports kei cars (alongside the Honda Beat and Suzuki Cappuccino). With its peppy 657cc turbocharged engine and go-kart-like handling, the AZ-1 is a prime example of a big personality in a small package.

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4.Honda CR-X del Sol SiR

Often overshadowed by its bigger brothers, the Honda CR-X del Sol SiR offered something truly special: a removable targa top and a high-revving VTEC engine. It was an open-top roadster with the soul of a sports car. Its unique 'TransTop' system, which automatically stowed the roof in the trunk, was an engineering marvel. This car perfectly blended the fun of a convertible with Honda's renowned performance and reliability.

5. Toyota Chaser Tourer V

While the Mark II and Cresta often get the spotlight, the Toyota Chaser Tourer V is arguably the best of the JZX trio. With its aggressive styling, four doors, and the legendary 1JZ-GTE twin-turbo inline-six engine, it was a proper luxury sedan that could also be a tire-shredding drift car. It represents the pinnacle of JDM 'sleeper' culture—a car that looks like a comfortable daily driver but hides the heart of a beast.

6. Suzuki Cappuccino – Tiny, But Mighty

This kei car may be small, but it's big on fun. Weighing under 1,600 lbs and powered by a turbocharged 657cc engine, the Suzuki Cappuccino delivers perfect 50:50 weight distribution and rear-wheel drive — a true go-kart for the streets.

🏁 JDM tip: These are a blast on tight circuits and touge roads. Think Miata vibes, but in miniature form.

7. Mitsubishi FTO – The Underdog Sports Coupe

While the Mitsubishi Eclipse was grabbing attention in the West, the FTO was quietly making waves in Japan. With a lightweight chassis and high-revving MIVEC V6 engine, it offered an affordable, front-wheel-drive sports car experience that was super fun to drive.

🎯 Tip: The GP Version R trim is the one to hunt for if you're considering an import.

8. Mazda Eunos Cosmo – The Forgotten Triple-Rotor Beast

The Eunos Cosmo is one of Mazda's most luxurious and advanced cars ever made — and it came with an optional 20B-REW, the world’s first production twin-turbo 3-rotor engine. That’s more rotary madness than the RX-7 ever had!

💡 Bonus: It was the first car in the world to feature a built-in GPS navigation system (in 1990!).

9. Nissan Stagea (WC34) – The GT-R Wagon You Didn’t Know Existed

Nicknamed the "Skyline wagon", the Nissan Stagea is essentially a practical, family-friendly version of the R33 GT-R — especially the rare Stagea 260RS Autech version, which comes with the same RB26DETT twin-turbo engine, AWD system, and a manual transmission.

🔥 Fun fact: The 260RS was developed by Autech, Nissan’s in-house tuning arm. It's one of the only wagons in the world with true supercar DNA. 

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Curiosity: Did you know that the Toyota Sera's unique butterfly door mechanism was a key inspiration for the design of the McLaren F1's iconic doors? That's right, one of the most famous supercars in history owes a design tip to this quirky JDM coupe!

Do any of these hidden JDM gems surprise you? Let us know in the comments which one you'd love to own!

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5 JDM Cars You Can Still Daily Drive

If you're a fan of Japanese Domestic Market (JDM) cars, you know the thrill of owning a piece of automotive culture that blends performance, style, and reliability. But while some JDM legends are best reserved for weekend blasts or car shows, there are still a few you can comfortably daily drive—without sacrificing fun or practicality. Here are 5 JDM cars you can still daily drive today and enjoy every mile.

Mazda MX-5 Miata (NB/NC)

Lightweight, reliable, and endlessly fun to drive, the Miata is the perfect JDM daily for enthusiasts who love twisty roads. The NB (1998–2005) and NC (2006–2015) generations offer a great balance of modern features and classic roadster charm, with parts readily available and fuel economy that won’t hurt your wallet. 

🛠 Pro tip: Stick to stock or mild bolt-ons for the best daily drivability and long-term reliability.

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The Craziest JDM Colors Ever Offered by Manufacturers

When we talk about JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) cars, it's not just about performance, tuning, or rarity — it's also about style, and nothing screams individuality like the wild paint colors Japanese manufacturers have dared to release over the years.

From factory-finished neons to track-ready matte tones, JDM automakers have a history of offering some of the boldest and most eye-catching colors ever seen on production vehicles. Whether it’s a show car or a weekend drifter, these colors have become iconic in the car culture world.

🔥 Legendary JDM Colors You Might Not Know

• Midnight Purple (R33/R34 Skyline GT-R)

Nissan’s legendary deep-shifting purple paint that changes hues under different lighting. Not only rare — it's a collector's dream!

• Phoenix Yellow (DC2 Integra Type R, S2000)

This punchy yellow became instantly recognizable among Honda lovers and helped define the aggressive look of the Type R models.

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• Laguna Blue Pearl (S2000 AP1)

A stunning, almost electric blue that made the S2000 look like it belonged on a Tokyo expressway at midnight.

• Sunburst Yellow (Mazda RX-7 FD3S)

A bold yellow option that looked like pure speed. Only offered for a short time, making it a true unicorn color today.

• Millennium Jade (R34 GT-R V-Spec II Nür)

Subtle, elegant, yet exclusive — only a handful of GT-Rs ever wore this greenish-gold shade straight from the factory.

🧠 Did You Know?

Some JDM-exclusive colors were never available overseas, making them even more desirable for importers and collectors. In fact, Toyota once released a Supra in “Deep Jewel Green” metallic — but only in Japan — with fewer than 50 units known to exist!

These unique hues aren’t just about looks — they’re a statement. They tell a story about the era, the car, and the passionate community that surrounds JDM culture.

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💬 What’s YOUR Favorite JDM Color?

Have you ever seen one of these rare paint jobs in person? Or maybe you own a car in one of these legendary shades?

Drop a comment below and let us know your favorite crazy JDM color — or one you'd love to own someday!

And don't forget to check out more on jdmproject.com for exclusive content, features, and everything JDM!

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How to Avoid Getting Scammed When Importing a JDM Car

Importing a JDM (Japanese Domestic Market) car is a dream for many enthusiasts — rare models, right-hand drive layouts, turbocharged legends like the Nissan Skyline GT-R or Toyota Supra, and the unmistakable JDM culture. But with the increasing popularity of these imports, scams are on the rise. If you’re not careful, your dream car could turn into a costly nightmare.

Here’s how to avoid getting scammed when importing a JDM car, whether you're buying from Japan or through a third-party importer.

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1. Research the Import Laws in Your Country

Each country has specific regulations regarding the importation of vehicles — age restrictions, emissions standards, and safety compliance. In the U.S., for example, the 25-Year Rule allows vehicles that are at least 25 years old to be imported without needing to meet U.S. safety and emissions standards.

👉 Always make sure the car you're buying qualifies under your country's import laws — if not, it could be seized at customs.

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2. Buy from Reputable Exporters or Dealers

A professional and transparent exporter will provide:

• Verified auction sheets
• High-resolution photos
• Chassis numbers
• Real-time updates

📌 Tip: Check for reviews, ask for references, and look for companies with a track record of successful deliveries.

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3. Be Wary of Prices That Seem Too Good to Be True

If a JDM legend like an RX-7 or Silvia S15 is listed for half the usual market price, it’s likely a scam — or it may have serious mechanical or legal issues.

💡 Curiosity: Did you know that some JDM cars are "auction grade R," meaning they've been in accidents and rebuilt? Always ask for the auction grade and history!

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4. Demand Proper Documentation

Scammers often provide fake or incomplete documents. Always request:

• Export certificate
• Bill of lading
• Auction sheet (and have it translated if needed)
• VIN or chassis number verification

🔍 Use online tools to verify the auction sheet and chassis history.

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5. Use a Trusted Import Agent

Importing a car yourself is possible, but a licensed and experienced import agent can save you from the headaches and risks. They understand shipping logistics, customs, and registration requirements.

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6. Avoid Paying in Full Upfront

Never send the full payment before receiving verified documentation. A legitimate seller will typically require a deposit, with the remainder paid once certain milestones are reached (like shipment confirmation).

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Final Thoughts

Importing a JDM car is incredibly rewarding — but only when done right. By doing your homework, working with trusted sources, and watching for red flags, you can make your JDM dream a reality without falling victim to scams.

🚗 Have you ever imported a JDM car or are you planning to?

Drop your experience or any questions in the comments — let’s help each other stay safe and enjoy the JDM life!

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