the vti is sohc vtec, its not really "THE" vtec ppl boast about.
between the vti and si power wise there really isnt a significant difference to compare much, its mainly cosmetic.
to me the main thing is the sunroof that differs between the two as i would intend to convert the engine anyway. i went through the same phase of deciding but ended up with an EK civic..no regrets there lol