I wonder how i didnt see this thread.
First off, get a K&N filter. You can go for the universal type or the OE type. Universal filters will require some aftermarket pipe(s) to be fitted and the advantage is that you can re-route the filter to a cooler spot in the bonnet. I have an OE K&N in my esteem mpfi and it is more than sufficient considering I dont want any heavy mod's (to preserve the daily drive aspect). Downside of an universal filter is that its more prone to dust and requires cleaning more frequently that you think it does.
Next, get a performance exhaust system (header+freeflow exhaust).
4x1 headers improve mid range and top end power while it sarcifices low end torque to quite an extent. This can be irritating in stop and go traffic as you will end up riding the clutch and frying them eventually. These type of headers are generally custom made and can make highway drives very addictive, induced with high adrenalin doses. Contact psycho for a nice race spec 4x1 header. My car's exhaust system was custom made by psycho.
4x2x1 headers improve low and mid range power to give you superb acceleration. Contact psycho or rjstyles for this type again.
Next you can go for a porting / polishing job, aftermarket ECU's (search the forum for this. There is extensive info available. Or contact our member RDKarthik for info on aftermarket ECU's). Also adding to the above list is the high lift cam or performance cam. But the right cam should be chosen to ensure daily drive is not sacrificed.
Turbo is another addition to the list. But the cost and reliability of aftermarket turbo's might not be very inspiring to a few people. NOS kits also can be considered for that occasional boost of insane power. FRK in blore is known for good NOS installs.
End can's or mufflers can be custom made for a loud or muted sound. Generally the SS ones produce deep bassy notes while the custom made ones produce a rally note. Do remember that the center muffler plays an important part in cutting out some of the sound. My car is insanely loud as the center muffler is absent and so is the cat con. I have a straight pipe from the headers till the tail end.
Few points to be considered :
1. Go step by step instead of all the mod's at once. This will help you understand what the gain is from each mod.
2. Consider upgrading the tires and brakes - on an esteem this is highly recommended.
3. How much gain? Thats tough to answer considering most of us dont have dyno'd results. Most fig's you hear are only arising from speculation AFAIK.
All the best in your plans. Do keep us posted on the progress.
Last edited by n_aditya : 17th October 2007 at 18:34.
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