Your are right.

The ES platform is the civic 2001 to 2005. Before that is the EF, EK and EK.
BUt please note that the ES form suspension is as simple single wishbone, is is not as good in handling than the SIR's double A suspension, which has exelent handling characteristic.

Honda I believe simplified the front suspension of the ES so as to lower the cost, but on the other hand, the VTEC3 engine is awesome. Comparatively to a same old 1998VTi, the 2002 Vti engine has better power to weight ratio.

Overall, it improved, other than the drawback in the front suspension, its a better car.

Anyhow, I'm a fan of all civic series.

Happy Honda Driver MArvel67