1997 Honda Civic HX “MYTASTE” — A True JDM Masterpiece

Edenilson Escobar’s 1997 Honda Civic HX “MYTASTE” - Instagram: @edenilson1252 | Facebook: Edenilson Escobar - Photographer/Author: Donnie Rochin | IG: @r0cean11 | FB: r0cean11 Photography | www.r0cean11.com

“We build and create according to our passion — not to please everyone. Be humble, be yourself.” – Edenilson Escobar

The Origin

From El Salvador to the heart of the U.S. car culture, 39-year-old Edenilson Escobar has lived and breathed customization for decades. Working full-time in the world of automotive customization, his hands and vision have shaped countless cars and trucks — but none quite as personal as his own 1997 Honda Civic HX, proudly nicknamed “MYTASTE.”

“I’ve been going to car meets and shows since the early 2000s — right after The Fast and the Furious hit theaters. That movie changed everything. My friends were already deep in the scene, and I promised myself one day I’d build something special. I couldn’t afford a car back then, but I knew my time would come.”

Two decades later, that promise became a statement — a car that represents the grind, culture, and craftsmanship behind every true enthusiast.

Why the Civic HX?

Edenilson chose the Civic HX for a straightforward reason — timeless design and infinite potential.

“I’ve always loved the way this generation looks — clean, simple, sexy. The two-door body lines, the aftermarket support, the creativity possible with these platforms… it’s everything I love about the scene.”

Initially, he wanted an EM1, but couldn’t bring himself to cut up a collector’s gem. Instead, he found the perfect HX and went all in — transforming it from a humble commuter into a turbocharged, right-hand-drive, show-stopping street machine.

Built, Not Bought

This Civic isn’t a bolt-on catalog car — it’s a reflection of late nights, dedication, and brotherhood.

“My best friend Tomas and I spent countless hours — and I mean sleepless nights — building this car. We pushed through everything: long days, family sacrifices, constant tweaks. But when I stand back and look at it, it’s all worth it. Built, not bought.”

From fabrication to wiring, every detail was carefully crafted to blend old-school JDM authenticity with modern performance and visual punch.

Advice for Builders

“Stay calm. Every build has problems — that’s part of it. Don’t let other people’s opinions stop you. Build for yourself, stay humble, and be proud of your work.”

He also adds, “Buy the right parts once, and if something breaks, learn to fix it. That’s how you grow.”

What Makes It Unique

While most show Civics chase K-swaps or high-horsepower builds, Edenilson chose a different path — keeping the SOHC single-cam engine and elevating it through craftsmanship and precision tuning.

“Everyone goes for the big swaps, but I wanted to keep it old-school. The single cam has character — that’s why my license plate says MYTASTE.”

It’s a reminder that individuality beats imitation every time.

Build Details – 1997 Honda Civic HX “MYTASTE”

Engine / Drivetrain

Engine:

• D16Y5 1.6L VTEC-E
• Comp Turbocharger GT42/63
• Tial 38mm V-band wastegate & Q50mm blow-off valve
• Custom stainless steel hardline throttle cable
• Golden Eagle intake manifold
• Skunk2 Pro Series 70mm throttle body
• AEM high-volume fuel rail, regulator, and E85 fuel pump
• Hondata coil pack retrofit
• Crower Stage 2 turbo camshaft, forged pistons, H-beam rods
• SpeedFactory Racing intercooler/radiator combo
• Vibrant Performance 3” HD clamp assembly
• AEM methanol injection kit
• SpeedFactory titanium hardware (burnt finish)
• Custom oil catch can/coolant tank combo
• Full Rywire Mil-Spec harness
• Hondata S300 ECU, boost solenoid, and 4-bar MAP sensor
• Mugen limited-slip differential
• ACT 6-puck race clutch & flywheel
• Wilwood clutch master cylinder
• Innovative engine mounts and axles

Transmission:

• Synchrotech carbon master kit
• Custom stainless braided boost lines
• Hondata boost management setup

Suspension

• KSport Deluxe air suspension
• Skunk2 Pro Series front & rear camber kits
• K-Tuned traction bar
• Eibach 26mm front sway bar
• ASR 24mm rear sway bar & subframe
• Beaks rear lower arm bar
• Energy trailing arm bushings
• CTR 5-lug conversion

Brakes / Wheels / Tires

• Front: TL Type-S Brembo big brake kit
• Rear: EVO IX custom Brembo setup
• Rotora stainless lines & Rywire relocation kit
• Wheels: Volk Racing TE37 16x8 (+38)
• Tires: Falken Azenis RT615K (205/40R16)
• Hardware: ARP studs, Muteki lugs, Rays valve stems

Interior

• Bride Low Max reclinable seats (front) + custom Bride rears
• Takata 5-point harnesses
• Cusco 6-point roll cage
• K-Tuned Pro Circuit shifter w/ MXP titanium knob
• Circuit Hero shift plate
• CTR interior trim – carpet, panels, and door cards
• MOMO Tuner steering wheel w/ NRG quick release
• S2000 AP1 cluster conversion w/ custom harness
• AEM oil, voltage, and wideband gauges
• S2000 push-start button
• Mugen pedal set & Sergeant dead pedal

Audio / Video

• Pioneer AVH-X7500BT head unit
• Performance Teknique 4-channel + 2-channel amplifiers
• Two 12" Kicker CVX subwoofers
• Hifonics Elite 6x9 & 6.5" speakers

Exterior

• CTR full front-end swap
• Right-hand-drive conversion
• VIS carbon fiber hood & trunk
• Voltex Type-5 GT wing
• Carbon fiber roof, visor, and details throughout
• Top1 splitter, skirts, and diffuser
• CTR mirrors, moldings, and side markers
• Mugen license plate hardware
• Championship White paint

Built by Friends, Fueled by Passion

“My best friend Tomas and I did most of the work ourselves. Erick Aguilar from Erick’s Racing helped with fabrication and tuning — he’s been a big part of bringing this vision to life.”

Every piece tells a story — a shared moment in the garage, a breakthrough, a setback overcome. That’s what “built not bought” really means.

“Big thanks to my wife Madelyn for always supporting me and being part of my craziness. My daughters Zoe and Brianna for letting me use some of their time Artemio and Artemio Jr aka Lizard for supporting me and being part of the crew.”

Future Plans

Edenilson’s next big move? “All-wheel drive,” he says with a grin. “We’ve taken it this far — might as well go all the way.”

The Car Scene & Culture

Unlike many builders tied to specific crews, Edenilson’s a solo rider by choice. “I get along with everyone. The best part of the car scene is the people — the friends, promoters, shop owners, and opportunities. It’s a family.”

Over the years, his build has earned awards, features, and the respect of countless enthusiasts — proof that hard work, talent, and authenticity still shine brightest.

Dream Car

Nissan Skyline R34 — “That’s the ultimate dream.”

Inspirational Words

“Our builds reflect our passion and our limits. You’ll never please everyone, and that’s okay. Stay humble, be proud of what you create, and keep building for yourself.”
– Edenilson Escobar

Edenilson Escobar’s 1997 Civic HX “MYTASTE” is proof that timeless platforms never die — they evolve. With craftsmanship, culture, and character poured into every inch, it’s a love letter to the golden age of tuning and the builders who still keep that fire alive.

Call to Action

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