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Modified Honda Civics are quite common on roads and racetracks worldwide, but some enthusiasts go above and beyond. Recently, the YouTube channel HillClimb Monsters featured a video showcasing an EG (fifth generation) Honda Civic hatchback named “Beastie.” This vehicle has been transformed nearly beyond recognition, with plans for time attack racing in its future. The project comes from LoveFab, a shop known for specializing in Acura NSX performance and participating in the Pikes Peak International Hill Climb. Despite a fiery crash during their 2013 entry, they returned in 2017 with the Enviate Hypercar, which secured second place in the Unlimited class.
With a strong competitive background in one of the world’s toughest hill climbs, it’s clear that this shop is well-equipped to create an impressive time attack vehicle, and the components selected for this project indicate their serious commitment, similar to that of the Enviate.
We reached out to LoveFab for details about their vision for Beastie, and Cody Loveland, the shop’s namesake, provided extensive insights.
At the core of Beastie is a 3.2-liter J32A2 V6 engine from an early 2000s Acura. This powerhouse is visible through a hole in the Civic’s modified hood, reminiscent of a scene from Aliens. The engine was swapped in and turbocharged in 2013, increasing its output from the factory’s 260 horsepower to 377 wheel horsepower on 9 PSI and standard fuel. Loveland noted that with a simpler build, the engine could exceed 600 horsepower, and with more upgrades and a robust transmission, it could reach over 1,000 horsepower.
Beastie is equipped with 335 tires on all four corners, some of which are leftovers from the Enviate program. The wheels are originally from an NSX that raced at Pikes Peak in 2012, where the team finished second in the Unlimited class with Cody driving.
Despite achieving second place in class and fifth overall at the Empire Hillclimb, the car’s performance does not truly reflect its potential. Lack of time to optimize the suspension or aerodynamic setup significantly impacted its performance, and the driver was contending with a 102º fever.
In terms of aerodynamics, the modifications are particularly ambitious. To achieve an extreme 67/33 weight distribution, a full underbody setup and a 2,500mm front wing are planned to ensure front wheel grip at high speeds. A prototype of the front wing has already been created.
Looking ahead, LoveFab has both short-term and long-range goals for Beastie. They are targeting national time attack competitions, with a keen interest in the World Time Attack Challenge and a possible Pikes Peak entry. A test run of the car’s aerodynamics will take place during this year’s final Gridlife event at Gingerman Raceway in Michigan.
Should everything proceed smoothly, LoveFab aims to pursue a significant title with their Civic: the fastest front-wheel drive time attack car in the world. “Given our experience with high horsepower, high aerodynamic vehicles,” Loveland told The Drive, “I believe we have a solid chance at building a contender for the fastest FWD Time Attack vehicle.”
And we believe in their potential. We’re eager to see them demonstrate this capability at WTAC. Best of luck, gentlemen.
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