Can you only go step 1 or 2 right now, but want to make sure you do not spend money in the future fixing a mistake you make right now because of your limited budget?

Well, have we some good news for you! Make the right choices/decisions/purchases now and you won?t be thinking down the road ?what if?! It even works in life :^).

Here, we will lay out a couple of alternative paths and help to set you on the right one for you budget and performance goals.

From exhaustive research, the top four performance items to start with are:

1. Engine (Make more power)
2. Wheels/Tires
3. Suspension
4. Brakes

Most enthusiast will go in the order listed above (the order is a natural progression. For example, you may need larger wheels/tires before you can upgrade your brakes...but everyone has their preferences and may choose a different order).

Let's break them down...(click to each sections for more detailed information)

Engine

There are a couple of routes to take depending on your budget and goals. The main two options are:

1. Exhaust System
2. Engine Management

A third option, though not as effective until the first two options are done, is a Cold Air Intake or Short Ram (preferred as it doesn't create turbolence around the Mass Air Flow Sensor).

Though a complete turbo back exhaust system can be a little pricey, it is perhaps the best first step. While a Cat-Back is a good start, a turbo back system is the solid foundation you need for future power upgrades.

Follow up the Exhaust System with some well tuned engine management, and you can be pushing 280-300+ ponies!

For those on a restriced budget (<$500), consider a crank pulley, intercooler hoses, turbo inlet hoses, or amanual boost controller. Remember, you will need a boost gauge to set the boost controller.

Wheels/Tires

Not only do a wheels/tires upgrade separate your WRX from "stockers" they provide a significant improvement in handling.

Suspension

The best bang for the buck in suspension modifications is changing out the sway bars (especially, the rear)...simple to do yourself...and ooooohhh what a difference!

Brakes

Steel lines, rotors, and pads are the cheapest thing to change out...but for truly breath taking power...consider a "Big Brake" package.