Tyler Peruzzi | 23 | Amsterdam, NY
@fe1.ruzzi

Sometimes, the Car Chooses You

If you’ve been around Two Step Performance for a while, you might recognize me from a previous featured build. Back in October 2024, my Rallye Red 2022 Civic Sport was showcased. That car meant a lot to me; I loved it. It was my introduction into modifying cars and building something that felt like mine.

But from the very beginning, there was always one thing my heart wanted: a manual Civic.

I had no intentions of upgrading. I was happy. But when this 11th-gen Civic Si popped up for sale, everything just aligned. It felt like one of those moments you don’t overthink...you just know it’s meant to be.

The Vision Taking Shape

The Si checked every box I didn’t even realize I was waiting for. A factory manual, a refined platform, and the perfect balance between performance and daily drivability. The moment I drove it, I knew this was the car I was supposed to build.

The best part about owning this car is how easy it is to modify and how easy it is to make good power. Honestly, I haven’t found anything I dislike about it. I truly smile every time I drive this car.

This build didn’t start from zero. I transferred everything usable from my Civic Sport and continued building with the same mindset: quality parts, clean styling, and purpose behind every modification. I originally started modifying cars because I went to meets and wanted something that reflected me.

This Si became that canvas.

Mod List

Interior

• PRL Carbon Fiber Steering Wheel

• Hybrid Racing Alcantara Shift Boot

• Hybrid Racing Chicane Shift Knob

• KTuner V2 w/ TSP Stage 1 Tune

• Red Anodized Climate Control Knobs
  
  

Exterior

• Jets Vinyl Dark Smoke Headlight Amber Delete

• Carbon Sixth Element Front & Rear Badges

• YOFER V3 4-Piece Front Lip

• YOFER V1 Side Skirts

• YOFER V2 Rear Diffuser

• TSP LED V1 Sequential Smoked White Tail Lights

• SWA FL5 Type R-Style Lower Grille
  

• SWA FL5 Type R-Style Upper Grille
  
  

• Spyder LED Fog Lights
  
  

Suspension & Wheels

• Work Kiwami 18x9.5 +38 (Gloss White)

• Work Center Caps

• Goodyear Eagle Sport Tires (235/40/18)

• D2 Lowering Springs
  
  

Engine & Drivetrain

• PRL High Volume Intake

• PRL Billet Oil Cap

• PRL Billet Battery Tie Down

• PRL Carbon Fiber Turbo Inlet Pipe
  
  

• PRL Coolant Expansion Tank

• Megan Racing Race Strut Bar
  

• Hybrid Racing Detent Springs

• Acuity 4-Way Adjustable Shifter

• MagnaFlow Neo Cat-Back Exhaust

• PRL Rear Engine Mount

Looking Ahead

Future plans include:

• RV6 Retro Flywheel + Clutch Kit

• PRL Front Mount Intercooler

• TSP High Efficiency Downpipe
  

My dream setup is a ~300whp street car that keeps its reliability but can still win at shows. A car that gets used, not just looked at.

Finding the Rhythm

Choosing a favorite mod is tough, but it comes down to two.

My gloss white Work Kiwamis completely transform the car; they set off the Rallye Red paint perfectly. On the other hand, the MagnaFlow Neo catback gives the car the deep, aggressive tone it needs and pops at just the right moments. Both completely changed how the car feels and looks.

One of the biggest challenges with this build has been the stock clutch. When I bought the car, I only had about two hours of manual driving experience...all in a parking lot. I knew the clutch would take a little beating while I learned, but it handled it well. Learning manual in this car made me feel more connected to it than anything I’ve owned before.

Form, Function, and Feeling

My favorite memory with the car isn’t about mods or power. On July 27th, I went to a car show called Street Scene with my dad and my friend Dakota. It was the first car show my dad has ever attended with me. Being able to show him what I enjoy and have my car there made that day unforgettable for both of us.

I’d describe my build as a show car with purpose. Something I can take to a show, compete for awards, and still shred backroads without worrying about reliability. The Si really shines on a backroad with windows down, just enjoying the drive.

And yes, I daily drive it. I have another vehicle, but this one is always my first choice.

Advice for New Builders

My advice is simple: save your money and buy quality parts. Less is more. One of my good friends always told me, “Buy once, cry once.” Spend the money, do it right, and stand out.

This car means everything to me. It’s my escape from the world. Driving a manual makes me feel engaged, present, and connected - not just to the car, but to the moment.

Huge thanks to Two Step Performance and the brands that helped make this build what it is today. This is only the beginning.