If you’re an automotive enthusiast looking to take your car to the next level, you’ve come to the right place! In this article, we’ll explore the most popular performance upgrades that can help you enhance your sports car’s speed, acceleration, handling, braking, and even fuel efficiency. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just starting out, these simple and effective upgrades are sure to rev up your engine and take your driving experience to new heights. So buckle up and get ready to unleash the full potential of your beloved ride!
Engine Upgrades
Intake System
The intake system is responsible for supplying clean and cold air to the engine. Upgrading the intake system can improve air flow, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. There are various types of intake systems available, such as cold air intakes, which bring in air from outside the engine bay, and ram air intakes, which use the vehicle’s forward motion to force air into the engine. A high flow air filter and a throttle body spacer are other components that can be added to further enhance the performance of the intake system.
Exhaust System
Upgrading the exhaust system can provide a significant improvement in both performance and sound. By replacing the restrictive stock exhaust with a higher-flowing system, the engine can breathe more easily, resulting in increased horsepower and torque. Headers, which replace the stock exhaust manifolds, are a popular option for improving exhaust flow. Cat-back and axle-back systems are also available, which replace the exhaust pipes and mufflers further downstream from the headers, allowing for better flow and a more aggressive exhaust note. In addition to performance gains, upgrading the exhaust system can also help to reduce backpressure, resulting in improved fuel efficiency.
Turbocharger
A turbocharger is a device that uses the exhaust gases from the engine to compress air and force it into the intake manifold. This compressed air allows the engine to burn more fuel, resulting in increased power output. By installing a turbocharger, you can experience a significant boost in horsepower and torque. However, it is important to note that turbocharging requires careful tuning and additional components, such as an intercooler, to ensure proper engine operation and prevent damage.
Supercharger
Similar to a turbocharger, a supercharger also increases the amount of air supplied to the engine, resulting in increased power output. However, unlike a turbocharger, a supercharger is driven directly by the engine, using a belt connected to the crankshaft. This means that a supercharger provides instant power delivery, eliminating any lag associated with turbochargers. Superchargers are available in different forms, such as centrifugal, roots, and twin-screw, each offering their own advantages in terms of power delivery and efficiency.
Engine Tune-up
An engine tune-up involves optimizing the performance of the engine by making adjustments to various components and systems. This can include adjusting the ignition timing, fuel mixture, and idle speed, as well as replacing worn-out spark plugs and ignition wires. A proper engine tune-up can improve power output, throttle response, and fuel efficiency. It is recommended to consult with a professional or use specialized software to ensure that the engine is tuned correctly and safely.
Suspension Upgrades
Coilovers
Coilovers are a popular suspension upgrade that combines both springs and shock absorbers into a single unit. They allow for adjustable ride height and damping, which can improve both handling and aesthetics. By adjusting the ride height, you can lower the center of gravity, reducing body roll and improving cornering capabilities. Additionally, coilovers provide better control over the suspension, allowing for fine-tuning to match your driving style or specific track conditions.
Lowering Springs
Lowering springs are an affordable and relatively simple suspension upgrade that can provide a sportier appearance and improved handling. By reducing the distance between the body of the vehicle and the ground, lowering springs lower the center of gravity, improving stability and reducing body roll during cornering. It is important to note that when installing lowering springs, other components such as shocks and struts should also be upgraded to maintain the proper suspension geometry and ensure optimal performance.
Sway Bars
Sway bars, also known as anti-roll bars or stabilizer bars, are designed to reduce body roll during cornering. They are mounted between the left and right side of the suspension and are connected to the chassis. By resisting the twisting motion of the suspension, sway bars help to keep the vehicle level and improve traction. Upgrading the sway bars can result in improved handling and reduced understeer or oversteer tendencies.
Strut Braces
Strut braces, also known as tower braces or strut bars, are designed to reinforce the chassis and improve the rigidity of the front or rear suspension. By connecting the strut towers together, strut braces help to reduce flex and improve steering response. They are particularly effective in vehicles with MacPherson strut suspensions, where the front strut towers are not directly connected. Installing strut braces can provide a more solid and connected feel, especially during cornering or sudden changes in direction.
Bushings
Upgrading the suspension bushings can provide a significant improvement in both ride quality and handling. Bushings are rubber or polyurethane components that dampen vibrations and provide a degree of flexibility in the suspension system. However, the stock bushings can wear out over time, resulting in increased play and reduced responsiveness. Upgrading to polyurethane or other high-performance bushings can help to eliminate this play, providing a more precise and controlled suspension. Additionally, upgrading to stiffer or adjustable bushings can allow for better fine-tuning of the suspension characteristics to match your preferences or driving conditions.
Brake Upgrades
Performance Brake Pads
Upgrading the brake pads can significantly improve braking performance and reduce stopping distances. Performance brake pads are made from materials that offer superior friction and heat resistance compared to the stock pads. This allows for better bite and increased overall braking power. Performance brake pads are available in various compounds, each offering different levels of bite, pedal feel, and noise characteristics. It is important to choose the right compound for your specific needs, considering factors such as street driving, track use, and cold weather performance.
Slotted or Drilled Rotors
Slotted or drilled rotors are another popular brake upgrade option that can improve braking performance. Slotted rotors have grooves machined into the friction surface, which helps to dissipate heat and gases, resulting in improved braking performance and reduced fade. Drilled rotors, on the other hand, have holes drilled into the friction surface, which also helps to dissipate heat and prevent the build-up of gases. Both slotted and drilled rotors provide better initial bite and improved wet weather performance. However, it is important to note that drilled rotors can be prone to cracking under heavy use, so they are more suitable for street driving or light track use.
Stainless Steel Brake Lines
Upgrading to stainless steel brake lines can improve brake pedal feel and provide more consistent braking performance. Unlike the stock rubber brake lines, which can expand under pressure, stainless steel lines are more rigid and resistant to expansion. This results in a firmer pedal and better feedback, allowing for better modulation and control. Additionally, stainless steel brake lines are more durable and resistant to wear, making them a worthwhile upgrade for both performance and longevity.
Big Brake Kit
A big brake kit is a comprehensive upgrade that includes larger and more powerful calipers, rotors, and brake pads. By increasing the size and clamping force of the braking components, a big brake kit can provide significantly improved stopping power and fade resistance. This is particularly beneficial for vehicles that are used for aggressive driving or track use, where repeated hard braking is common. However, it is important to note that installing a big brake kit requires careful consideration of other factors, such as wheel clearance and brake pedal feel, to ensure proper fitment and optimal performance.
Brake Caliper Upgrade
Upgrading the brake calipers can provide both a visual and performance improvement to the braking system. High-performance brake calipers are designed to provide increased clamping force and better heat dissipation, resulting in improved braking performance and reduced fade. Upgrading to larger or multi-piston calipers can also provide more even pressure distribution and better modulation, allowing for precise and controlled braking. It is important to consider factors such as compatibility, rotor size, and dust seals when choosing the right brake caliper upgrade for your vehicle.
By investing in these popular performance upgrades, you can take your automotive experience to the next level. Whether you’re looking for added speed, improved handling, better braking, or a more personalized aesthetic, there are plenty of options available to suit your needs and budget. Remember to consult with professionals and do thorough research before making any modifications to ensure proper fitment, compatibility, and safety. With the right upgrades, you can unlock the full potential of your vehicle and enjoy a thrilling driving experience.
