Originally posted by MoFo
Actually it's not the weight of the engine per se, it's the way the engine sit's in the car. The way it sits shifts the weight, making it more difficult to turn.
My buddy has one in his EG, handles like ass, well at least compared to other hatches. But the thing is fast; 12.63 on streets. 
You are right it does seriously destroy any chances of having a close to 50/50 weight ratio, it does make a Civic nose heavy but sway bars can correct this.