Aaron,
I've raced my Civic since 99 when I did my driver school. I've had alot of fun with it and some shining moments when I was able to win a few races. The drum brakes haven't been an issue at all especially with Hawk Blues on the front, no rear lock up at all not even in SP turn 5. Maybe I'm not going fast enough. Your car is prepped way better than mine. You'll have fun, they're easy to drive. Keep it simple and enjoy.
Brad