Monza76

I am currently researching low cost RWD cars with lots of handling potential. Since the Mustang is the only reasonably priced RWD platform since the 1980s it is at the top of my list. Right now I am looking to either a 1999-2004 v6 or a 1990-1993 5 speed 4 cylinder. Here is my question:

Can I get a reliable 120hp from a 2.3L with relatively inexpensive bolt ons? I plan to concentrate on handling by upgrading shocks, bushings and sway bars and possibly adding camber/caster plates to allow for more aggressive wheel alignment.

Anyone else out there who has put more into handling than hp? I would be very interested in all suggestions.

Ira

ExtrmZ

my plan for now is to put more into handling than hp, it is possible to get 120 from that block, but for it to be done cheaply, it would mean turbo

sleeper_inc

Get some stiffer springs, adjustable shocks, and HUGE sway bars!

For 120hp just get a bigger cam, and port the intake, but I would save the headache and throw a 2.3T in there

TRBOPWR

I would use a Miata for that kind of power level. 50/50 weight distribution, small, and light weight.

924banger

Unless you put a turbo 2.3 in, the handling might turn out to be the cheapest. Bigger cam, then port/polish to the max, CAI (if only to rid yourself of the stupid silencer), ranger header(or any tubular design) with full 2 1/4" exhaust without cats and a decent muffler, aluminum or carbon fiber driveshaft, and then a better fuel pump.

That might get you the 10-20 extra hp needed. Putting the car on a diet helps a little.

Suspension for fox body mustangs are everywhere so the prices are pretty cheap. $50 can get you a new set of sub-frame connectors. $400 for new springs and shocks.

The hardest part to find for the 2.3 will be engine mounts I think.

Monza76

I am not really all that concerned about power, a smooth intake track, possibly a Ranger exhaust manifold and a good tune should at least keep it over 100hp. The frame stiffening and sway bars are more than likely my first steps, along with tossing any unnecessary bits to get the weight down. Fender flares and big tires (old school style on 15X8 or wider, wheels) will be the major concession to looks. This will be a cruiser with the possibility of the occasional (very) amateur slalom.

I just want a car that is fun to drive down a twisty road (and that I can afford to keep gasoline in at over $1 per liter).

Ira

Monza76

Yes but for two things, finding a Miata for under $10000 here is very difficult and my old frame doesn't fold well into a car that low. It fits fine, it is just hard to put-on and take-off (you don't sit in it, you wear it). As for the fun to drive factor, the Miata is off the scale, an absolute ball to drive.

Ira

924banger

These cars are fun to drive down curves but even better after suspension mods. I started feeling the sway much more in my mustang since I got the cavalier.

ExtrmZ

what is a good brand for shocks and springs? i am trying to find some for mine, but i have no idea what to look for

sleeper_inc

shocks - koni or tokico
springs - eibach
swaybars - the bigger the better