So, you're dreaming of turning your trusty 1999 Honda Civic into a rear-wheel-drive (RWD) machine? You're not alone! The idea of a lightweight, nimble Civic with RWD handling is definitely appealing. But before you start tearing apart your Civic, let's dive deep into what a RWD conversion really entails. We're talking feasibility, cost, complexity, and whether it's actually worth the effort. Buckle up, because we're about to get technical!

Understanding the Allure of RWD Conversion

The burning question for many car enthusiasts is: why even bother with a RWD conversion? Well, rear-wheel-drive configurations offer a distinct driving experience compared to the front-wheel-drive (FWD) setup that comes standard in most Civics. The most noticeable difference lies in handling dynamics. In a RWD car, the rear wheels are responsible for propelling the vehicle forward, while the front wheels handle the steering. This separation of duties can lead to more balanced handling, especially during spirited driving or on the track. Think of it like this: the front wheels can focus solely on turning, without having to worry about also pulling the car along.

Another advantage often cited is improved acceleration. Under hard acceleration, weight shifts towards the rear of the car. In a RWD vehicle, this weight transfer helps to increase traction on the driving wheels, allowing for quicker launches and faster acceleration times. This is why you see many high-performance sports cars and racing vehicles utilizing RWD systems. The ability to put the power down effectively is crucial for maximizing performance. Then there's the fun factor! RWD cars are known for their playful handling characteristics, making them ideal for drifting and other forms of motorsports. The ability to easily induce oversteer (where the rear of the car slides out) adds an element of excitement and control that many drivers crave.

For those seeking a unique and engaging driving experience, a RWD conversion can seem like the ultimate modification. The thought of transforming a humble Civic into a tire-shredding machine is undoubtedly tempting. However, it's important to remember that such a conversion is a significant undertaking with considerable implications. Before jumping in headfirst, it's essential to carefully weigh the pros and cons, assess your skill level and resources, and determine if the potential benefits outweigh the inherent challenges.

The Nitty-Gritty: Technical Challenges of a RWD Conversion

Okay, so you're still intrigued? Let's get real about the technical hurdles involved in converting your 1999 Honda Civic to RWD. This isn't a simple bolt-on project, guys. We're talking about major modifications to the car's structure, drivetrain, and suspension. First up, you'll need to figure out how to get power from the engine to the rear wheels. Since the Civic is designed as a FWD car, there's no existing driveshaft tunnel or rear differential mounting points. This means you'll have to fabricate a custom driveshaft tunnel that runs the length of the car to accommodate the driveshaft, which transmits power from the transmission to the rear differential. This requires cutting and welding, which can compromise the structural integrity of the chassis if not done correctly.

Then, you'll need to install a rear differential, which splits the power from the driveshaft and sends it to the rear wheels. This involves sourcing a suitable differential from another vehicle (often a rear-wheel-drive car or truck) and fabricating custom mounting points to attach it to the Civic's chassis. This is a critical step, as the differential needs to be securely mounted to handle the torque and stress of driving. The suspension system also needs a complete overhaul. The existing front suspension is designed for a FWD setup and won't work with RWD. You'll need to replace it with a custom-designed rear suspension system that can handle the weight and dynamics of a RWD car. This typically involves fabricating new suspension arms, mounting points, and possibly even modifying the rear subframe. The steering system may also require modifications to ensure proper handling and feedback with the new RWD configuration. This might involve changing the steering rack, linkages, or even the entire steering column.

Don't forget about the electrical system. You'll need to modify the wiring harness to accommodate the new drivetrain and suspension components. This can be a complex and time-consuming task, as you'll need to trace and reroute wires to ensure everything functions correctly. And of course, you'll need to address the brakes. The existing brakes may not be sufficient for the increased performance of a RWD Civic. You'll likely need to upgrade to larger brakes with improved calipers and rotors to ensure adequate stopping power. All these modifications require extensive fabrication skills, welding expertise, and a deep understanding of automotive engineering. It's not a project for the faint of heart or those lacking the necessary skills and equipment.

Cost Considerations: Preparing Your Wallet

Let's talk money, guys. Converting a 1999 Honda Civic to RWD isn't just a time-consuming project; it's also an expensive one. The cost can vary widely depending on the specific parts you use, the complexity of the fabrication work, and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional shop. However, you can expect to spend a significant amount of money on this conversion. One of the biggest expenses will be the custom fabrication work. As mentioned earlier, you'll need to fabricate a driveshaft tunnel, rear differential mounts, and a custom rear suspension system. This requires specialized equipment and skills, which can be costly if you hire a professional fabricator. The rear differential itself can also be a significant expense. Depending on the type of differential you choose (e.g., limited-slip, locking), it can cost several hundred to several thousand dollars. Then there's the cost of the suspension components. A custom-designed rear suspension system can easily cost several thousand dollars, especially if you opt for high-performance parts. The driveshaft, axles, and other drivetrain components will also add to the overall cost.

Don't forget about the brakes. Upgrading to larger brakes with improved calipers and rotors can cost several hundred to several thousand dollars, depending on the brand and type of brakes you choose. And of course, there's the cost of the miscellaneous parts and materials. This includes things like welding supplies, metal tubing, wiring, and other small parts that can quickly add up. Labor costs can also be a major factor if you hire a professional shop to do the work. Depending on the shop's hourly rate and the complexity of the conversion, labor costs can easily exceed several thousand dollars. In total, a RWD conversion for a 1999 Honda Civic can easily cost anywhere from $10,000 to $30,000 or more, depending on the level of customization and the quality of the parts used. Before starting this project, it's essential to create a detailed budget and factor in all the potential costs. It's also a good idea to have a contingency fund in case unexpected expenses arise.

Is it Worth It? Weighing the Pros and Cons

So, after all that, is a RWD conversion for your 1999 Honda Civic actually worth it? The answer, as always, depends on your individual goals, resources, and priorities. Let's weigh the pros and cons. On the pro side, a RWD conversion can significantly improve the handling and performance of your Civic. The improved weight distribution and traction can lead to faster acceleration, better cornering, and a more engaging driving experience. A RWD Civic is sure to turn heads and attract attention wherever you go. It's a unique and custom build that will set you apart from the crowd. If you're passionate about cars and enjoy the challenge of building something truly unique, a RWD conversion can be a rewarding experience. The satisfaction of transforming a humble Civic into a high-performance machine is hard to beat.

However, there are also some significant cons to consider. A RWD conversion is a complex and time-consuming project that requires extensive fabrication skills and welding expertise. It's not a project for beginners or those lacking the necessary tools and equipment. As mentioned earlier, a RWD conversion can be very expensive, potentially costing tens of thousands of dollars. This is a significant investment that may not be worth it for everyone. A RWD conversion can significantly alter the reliability and practicality of your Civic. The modifications can introduce new points of failure, and the car may no longer be as comfortable or fuel-efficient as it was before. Depending on your local laws, a RWD conversion may not be street legal. You'll need to check with your local authorities to ensure that the modifications comply with all applicable regulations. Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to convert your 1999 Honda Civic to RWD is a personal one. Carefully weigh the pros and cons, assess your skills and resources, and determine if the potential benefits outweigh the inherent challenges. If you're passionate about cars and willing to invest the time, money, and effort required, a RWD conversion can be a rewarding project. However, if you're looking for a more practical or cost-effective way to improve your Civic's performance, there may be other options worth considering.

Alternative Options: Exploring Other Performance Upgrades

Okay, so maybe a full-blown RWD conversion isn't in the cards. Don't worry, guys, there are plenty of other ways to boost the performance of your 1999 Honda Civic without completely reinventing the wheel (pun intended!). Let's explore some alternative options. A popular and relatively straightforward upgrade is to improve the engine performance. This can be achieved through various modifications, such as installing a cold air intake, upgrading the exhaust system, or even swapping in a more powerful engine. These modifications can increase horsepower and torque, resulting in improved acceleration and overall performance. Upgrading the suspension is another great way to enhance your Civic's handling. Installing lowering springs, performance shocks, and sway bars can improve cornering ability and reduce body roll. These modifications can make your Civic feel more planted and responsive, without requiring major structural changes. Improving the brakes is essential for any performance upgrade. Upgrading to larger brakes with improved calipers and rotors can provide better stopping power and reduce brake fade. This is especially important if you've increased the engine's power output.

Lightweight wheels can significantly improve your Civic's acceleration and handling. Reducing the weight of the wheels reduces the rotational inertia, allowing the car to accelerate and decelerate more quickly. Upgrading the tires can also make a big difference in handling and grip. Performance tires offer improved traction and cornering ability compared to standard tires. For those seeking a more dramatic performance boost, an engine swap can be a viable option. Swapping in a more powerful engine from another Honda model (e.g., a B18C1 or K20A) can significantly increase horsepower and torque. However, engine swaps can be complex and expensive, so it's important to do your research and plan carefully. Another option is to install a turbocharger or supercharger. These forced induction systems can significantly increase engine power, but they also require careful tuning and modifications to ensure reliability. These alternative options offer a range of performance improvements without the complexity and expense of a full RWD conversion. They can be a great way to enhance your Civic's performance and handling while maintaining its reliability and practicality. Before making any modifications, it's important to do your research, consult with experienced mechanics, and choose the upgrades that best suit your needs and budget.

Final Thoughts: Making the Right Choice for Your Civic

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to pursue a RWD conversion for your 1999 Honda Civic is a personal one. It's a project that requires careful consideration, planning, and execution. Weigh the pros and cons, assess your skills and resources, and determine if the potential benefits outweigh the inherent challenges. If you're passionate about cars, enjoy a challenge, and have the resources to invest, a RWD conversion can be a rewarding project that results in a truly unique and high-performing vehicle. However, if you're looking for a more practical or cost-effective way to improve your Civic's performance, there are plenty of other options worth considering. Engine upgrades, suspension modifications, and brake improvements can all enhance your Civic's performance and handling without the complexity and expense of a full RWD conversion.

No matter what you decide, remember to do your research, consult with experienced mechanics, and plan carefully. With the right approach, you can transform your 1999 Honda Civic into the car of your dreams. Whether that dream involves tire-shredding RWD drifts or simply a more refined and responsive driving experience, the possibilities are endless. So get out there, explore your options, and start building the Civic you've always wanted! Just remember to stay safe, have fun, and always respect the limits of your car and your driving ability. Happy wrenching, guys!