Picked up 96 civic LX(stock) and on a budget mod ($400+-) I'm still a newb at civics and want a mod that'll show me some noticable engine performance (that possible?) I found some inexpensive mod chips on ebay; any good?

 

No, the chips are for tweaking the engine's ecu to be compatible with MAJOR upgrades.
Your 96 LX has a D16Y7 engine (most likely). From what I've READ the best mods for speed are:

1. AEM cold air intake (about $200 and worth 2-4 hp gain) Best part is, the filter (K&N) is cleanable, and will pay for itself over time, because you dont have to buy a new air filter. If your dad or friends are into mechanical stuff, you can make one of these and buy the filter separate. Colder air is better for your hp, because it contains more Oxygen. A CAI is said to be the best mod for any car.

2. Headers and Exhaust - (only in combination - about $700) larger/smoother piping, all the way back from the engine to the muffler, will give you some more gains (2-4 more hp) by allowing more air to go through the engine. Performance mufflers are varied mostly in looks and sound, but usually give roughly the same power.

3. N2O- Nitrous - NOS - though its cheap, it can damage the stock LX motor eventually. I wouldn't go there for a daily driver.

4. If you have a Manual transmission, I hear the EX manual transmission is a HUGE improvement for very little $ but some work.

5. Don't underestimate the value of some sporty tires (almost anything is better thant the stock) and the added stability of sway bars.

- Good luck and welcome.

 

I suggest the Ex tranny and new clutch maybe if you have a manual.. out of all the cheapest mods u can do to the car that would make the most difference that would be it =P