I wonder what civic type-r engine it was. the old b16a or a new civic type-r, the k20. either way, your starting with a DOHC motor that produces 180-200hp. 1-1.8hp per liter or something. very impressive. but only about 145 tq. no grunt off the line. Gota drive it like you stole it.
A little pricey though, 29,000 pounds is roughly $54k. you could build almost the same car out of a lotus 7 kit car for a lot less.