I just tinted my 03 SE, 20% minus the windshield.

want to know what is the best bang for the buck way to increase horsepower.

also what is the most cost effective way of improving handling.

these are my 2 most important objectives.

any help would be appreciated

 

Welcome to the .org!

POWER: y-pipe, cold air intake (CAI), exhaust

HANDLING: Rear Sway Bar (RSB)

 

why no mods?

 

A few reasons right now:

1. Don't want to **** w/the warranty, and risk having it voided.

2. Limited budget right now, and mods is basically throwing money down the drain, since they either add no value to your car or even lower the value in some cases.

3. People have been having probs with some mods, and I don't want to risk it. I'd have to take the car to the dealer, which is time I could use for other things, etc etc

4. The power and novelty of the car is still sufficient, so don't have the need!

But from what I've read thus far, the things I listed are what you're looking for.

I'll probably end up doing some thigns in the near future, such as the RSB. I'm just giong to stay away from any engine/power mods.

 

the cheapest and easiest way to improve Hp is to get an intake.... Stillen or JWT are good choices...(plus not too expensive)
for handeling (again if money is a issue) front strut bar is a good thing. got with either Stillen or OTTO

 

if i were in your shoes, i would hold off on the power mods for now and work solely on the suspension. i would start with a rear sway bar and front strut bar. after that go with struts and springs. the reason i say wait on the performance is so you dont get a y pipe and be dissapointed like so many other 2k2-2k3 people are. i would wait on the stillen headers to come out even though it might be a while longer. they will include the y pipe and should make some decent gains. if you have to have something, start with an intake and a b pipe and a muffler if you can stand the noise.

 

 

I say get a FrankenCar intake. It gives decent power and sounds sooo good. Next, get some springs to lower your car. I am happy with my MaxSpeeds. Then get a Rear Sway Bar.

 

It seems that the Rear Sway Bar is the way to go.

I hesitate on doing engine mods because it seems that the gains are minimal considering that the car already has 255hp going for it.

Does anyone have any numbers on the hp added by various engine mods?

 

Search is your friend. Also check out the FAQs. Honestly there is nothing out there right now that will up the hourse power by more than 10hp. If you are fairly happy with the performance, go RSB, FSTB. Then maybe some clears and go from there. Beware, it is addicting. I can't stop.

 

clears????

 

clear side markers.

Check out "maximamaybe" sog pic above.

Bob

 

what would an honest mechanic charge to install front side struts, RSB, and new springs to lower?

individually

I have no experience working on cars

 

Be very careful on this one. I'm getting new spring and struts this weekend, and I got estimates from $150 to $400 JUST to install. Do your homework. Ask your friends. Referrals work best!

good luck

 

I paid $250 incl alignment for my suspension install...Maxspeed springs/KYB GR-2 struts, altho price is not and should not be dependent upon equipment

 

what mechanic did you use?

I live in Staten Island

 

my mechanic is in Bayside Queens, a bit out of your way