Erick Mingollo | 34 | Richmond, BC, Canada
@blownheadgasket_
GR86 vs. Civic Si: Why I Picked Honda's Turbocharged Sedan
Before I bought my 2022 Honda Civic Si, I was driving a 2015 Subaru WRX with a few mods - hence the Instagram handle “@blownheadgasket_” (haha). I was in the market for a fun, manual car that wouldn’t drain my wallet. At the time, I was torn between the Toyota GR86 and the Civic Si. The FL5 Type R wasn’t available yet, so that wasn’t an option. I ended up choosing the Si for its impressive fuel economy and practicality. Initially, I told myself I’d leave it mostly stock… but every car enthusiast knows that’s the biggest lie we tell ourselves.
My plan was simple: maybe some lowering springs and budget wheels. But once I started getting into track driving, everything changed. I wanted my Si to stand out, especially here in BC where modified 11th-gen Si’s are rare. That gave me the perfect opportunity to explore unique parts and push the car’s limits. Along the way, I learned a ton, got involved with the community, and made some lifelong friends. I’ve enjoyed this car at shows, at the track, and everywhere in between.
Modifications
Engine & Tuning
Drivetrain & Shifting
Suspension & Bracing
Wheels & Brakes
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Volk Racing CE28SL (Mag Blue) 18x9.5 +38
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Nankang NS2R 255/35ZR18
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Genesis Brembo 4-Piston Calipers
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Project Mu Club Racer Brake Pads
Interior
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Momo Monte Carlo 320mm Steering Wheel
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Honda OEM NSX Horn Button (Red)
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Works Bell RAPFIX Short Boss Hub + SRD Kit
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NRG Quick Release
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Recaro SGP Black Velour
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Willans Silverstone 4-Point Harness
Exterior & Aero
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Mugen Window Visors
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Mugen Mirror Caps (paint-matched)
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Ikon Motorsports Front Lip, Side Skirts, and Rear Spats (color-matched)
The Build Experience
I installed many of the parts myself, including the intake, turbo inlet, downpipe, interior components, and aero kit. My good friends at Garage Five Performance helped me with the rest, especially the suspension setup. Shoutout to them—they’ve been a huge part of this journey.
If I had to name one major frustration, it’s the OEM clutch. Upgrading it is practically mandatory when you start adding power mods, and that’s a road I know I’ll have to take soon.
My favorite mod? No question—the Rays Volk Racing CE28SL in Mag Blue. They completely change the presence of the car. Wheels can truly make or break a build, and I think they nailed it here.
As for performance, the TSP Stage 1+ Tune transformed the car. The power delivery, the reduction in rev hang—it feels like how the car should have come from the factory.
Future Plans
I’m always on the hunt for new body kits for the 11th-gen Si. Eventually, I’d love to delete the rear seats, install a custom roll cage, and go further with power; head studs, upgraded clutch, and a custom tune are all in the pipeline.
Build Highlights
One of the standout features of my car is the stance and fitment. A lot of non-Type R 11th gens on social media are bagged. That’s not the route I wanted. I aimed for a functional, aggressive look that works at meets and holds its own on track days.
Another unique element is the bodywork. I intentionally avoided the overplayed Yofer kit. Instead, I took inspiration from the FL5 Mugen aesthetic; paint-matching the front lip and side skirts, and complementing them with Mugen mirror caps and visors. The result is a clean, cohesive look that stands out from the crowd.
Interior-wise, I prioritized performance. The Recaro SGP seat makes a huge difference on track. The Hybrid Racing Short Shifter gives precise, crisp throws. And the quick-release steering wheel setup (Momo Monte Carlo, Works Bell Hub/SRD kit, NRG QR) brings both function and flair.
The Genesis Brembo brake upgrade is another favorite. It’s a well-known mod in the Honda world and turned out to be a direct bolt-on. Now I have access to a wide range of Brembo-style pads—and the Project Mu Club Racers are killer on track.
Final Thoughts
The only real “lowlight” of the build is the parking lot experience—especially ramps. This is my first lowered car, so there’s been a learning curve navigating parkades without destroying my front lip.
But honestly? This car has changed my life. Being new to Vancouver, it wasn’t easy making connections. But cars bridged that gap. I met amazing people through this build—especially the team at Garage Five. What started as a customer relationship turned into a friendship and chosen family. From installing parts to hitting the track, this car brought it all together.
