need help with my 97' hatchback

[xwolfie1986x]

Well Sunday March 24th i bought a 1997 Civic DX Hatchback.Used obviously, Its black, and in amazing condition. It has just about 50k miles on it, and runs beautifully. Well now why I'm here...I can see all the pontential in this car but dont know where to start. I want to add horsepower seeing as it has what just over 100hp stock {laughs} I was told the first things i should do is add an Intake and then get a cat back exhaust. The thing is I dont know the mechanical side of cars to well. I mean honestly what does an intake do. Haha. Well if anyone has any tips, pointers, or knowledge of the things i should do please help asap. Thanks Much

Wolfie

[steve8091]

Research. I wouldn't TOUCH that car before educating yourself for at least a few months. Nice choice though: a black, 6th gen hatch.

[defmusik]

intake and exhaust are going to give you very minimal gains, if any at all.

all a cold air intake does is force more cool air into the engine so the fuel can combust faster with the higher ratio of air flow, you'll get like 3 hp out of one of these..they sound cool though!

[3rdWrldRcr]

Intake: allows better airflow into the engine for a cleaner burn. A gain in hp and gas mileage should be expected.

Cat-back (from the catalytic converter to the tailpipe): allows more air to flow out of the engine resulting in a slight boost in horsepower and usually resulting in a good sound. Lest you put a bee's nest or a folgers can muffler on your car.

Headers(from the exhaust manifold to the cat): This would be another suggestion if your looking for a little more horse. This ad-on allows a stronger and cleaner flow to the cat.