If possible, dont just read the specs. Go for a real spin and talk to enthusiasts in car clubs of the same brand and league. Just like a mac and a PC. It may have the same hardwares and an oem korean screen, but both performs differently. Some like one brand, some dont.
As for opinions, I am inclined to believe that civic has hatched off a new breed of road runners. Also, I do not have very good experiences with C&C in the past and current as well. But these are just my personal encounters. You may feel otherwise.
But if you are intending to book a CL 600 with 730hp BRABUS SV12 S Biturbo Coupe, then you will be enjoying a cigar with 2 babes attending to you by the pool with your choice of sun tan lotion. just kidding...
However, with whatever said or that you can gathered through meet ups and online googling, go for what your instinct tells you. Believe in what you have invested in and enjoy it. But, remember to take good care of the car to make it perform at its best. Adding those junks wont really help boost performance if one dont even bother with a faithful oil and tranny fluid change.