I wouldnt say the 182 has nothing on the bottom end but the 172 4-1 manifold rather than the 182's 4-2-1 manifold produces better low down torque and the 182 is better high up.
Out of cam ? Its not a vtec or anysort of system and dont say that on CS . The 5k kick is because of a flatspot. Get it remapped from RS tuning in leads or use a RStuner and it will smooth it out plus you get a rev limiter of 7750rpm.
But if its an all out track car a 172 makes sense. But if you will drive it most days then a 182 none cup might be better as you get cruise control, climate control, xenons, auto headlights, auto window wipers, 6cd changer and other bits to make you drive more comfortable.