Newbie of Newbies

Ok, i just got a 2002 honda civic LX. It was a gift from some nice grandparents . Reguardless, I have been looking at modifications non stop since I recieved it. I was looking at the specs for the LX vs. the EX. VTECH is this thing that comes standard with the EX engine. Does the VTECH give EX owners a big advantage? I was wondering what you experts would suggest to make my LX have a little more ummph. I haven't done anything, so I would like the most practicle choice first, then to the more extreme. Any suggestions on websites also would appreciated. Thank you very much.