Lol, look man, there are MAJOR differences between a 1997 Civic EX and a 2000 Civic Si. If you want to make a Si Clone.....it could be done, but it would be rather pointless when considering the cost.

- First of all, you would need to swap out the D16 SOHC VTEC engine that you currently have to a B16 DOHC VTEC Engine. This alone would run you $2000-$4000 depending on if you need a transmission swap as well. This will only boost your horsepower from your current 127hp to 160-180hp, depending on which B-Series motor you get.

- Secondly is the suspension, the Si has a more sports-type suspension. So that means new springs and shocks. This will run you about $500 if you get a really nice set-up to get a decent ride.

- Then comes the brakes. Regular civics have Front Disc Brakes only. The Si has Rear Disc Brakes as well. So that means that you need a completely new brake set-up in the back....which could run you close to $500-700 (im not to sure on brake prices).

- Then you have one of the most obvious things, COSMETICS. The Civic you have is part of the 96-98 model line. The Si falls into the 99-00 model line, which is in essence the same car, however it has a few cosmetic differences that make it look "sharper". To get this look, that requires you to buy 99-00 Civic Fenders, Hood, Headlights, AND Front Bumper. Not to mention the Si Red & White Taillights. And of course, you cant forget about the Si Spoiler. All of that would run you almost $1000 or more considering you have to get it all painted to match your car.

- Lastly, you have the interior. This is something you probably overlooked. Besides having different upholstry patters on the seats, the center console of the dashboard has a different layout in the 99-00 Civics versus the 96-98 Civics. The A/C unit is on the left side of the console instead of on the bottom like yours. So in order to do that, you would need to rip out your dash and find the dash from a 99-00 Civic and attempt to fit that in. This would mean you need to change the A/C Control Unit to the 99-00 one. The dash itself couldnt be more that $100-200, if that. But the work would be a bitch.

So considering all of those factors, your looking at what could be a $6200 investment just to make your car look like a Si, and your really only gaining about 40-50 hp. I dont know, but this seems kind of foolish. For that, sell your car, and spend a few thousand more to buy a REAL Honda Civic Si.