well, u can learn on alot of engines, my first swap that i did myself was a b16 and i now have a zc since i ran the b16 into the ground, never played with ls/vtec but thatd be a little bigger project than a b16, first things first buy urself a really nice manual on the car in question, learn it inside and out, what ever sensor is what it does why it does it etc, and you'll appreciate your car and be able to really get in and do some dirty work, b16 is a great engine, i like the turboed zc also, but do research on all ur options and decide what kinda car u want, and build away. ive done all my own swaps and am now on my 4th crx and 2nd engine ( that wasnt stock that is) and i love the crx platform, much faster than the civic ex, for alot less money, and alot more fun IMO, but the crx is just that a fun car, dont ever expect it to carry groceries or one of ur fat friends, thats what i like about the crx the most, my gf hates the car, i dont have to give my friends a ride and i can just enjoy myself on the road. its truely a peice together car, you put whatever u want into it and make it ur own.