I have used a EK3 for about 4 years. It gave me only a over heating issue due to a faulty thermostat valve and the sensor other than that it was perfect in all respects. My one was a brand new exi version and no air bags and no ABS but you may find vti recon versions with all the options for your budget limits i hope. I don't no about CS1 but EK3 is love to drive, handling, comfort and cornering is much better than the later version of civic (ES series).
No complains about the pulling power of EXI but may be better on Vi model. Fuel consumption was 9-10 km/Lt in Colombo daily running in the morning(Less traffic) and afternoon(more traffic). Out station 12-13 Km/Lt (Colombo-Kandy). Some says it should do more in out stations but depends on your drving style.
When i sold my one in 2004, It had done 200000 km + and efi engine was perfect.(I did reguler service with out fail)