guys , I have a stock 02 wagon that I purchased new . I know that opinions are varied but what are the best "bang for the buck" as far as - cold air intake , cat back . I don't want to spend any more than $700-800 . I'm not a big fan of a lot of noise out the pipe (not 18- well wish I was ) I want to increase hp without messing up a good thing , long haul on this car . Will those changes effect the computer ? Used parts ok , just as long as they are the right used parts . Why are you getting rid of it ? Help will be appreciated ,Thanks kayakrsteve will barter parts/labor for kayak lessons if interested - I have a pedigree of sorts in kayaking
uppipe/downpipe combo will be an inexpensive and very noticeable improvement. edit/ oh and welcome to the boards I miss my bugeye
Check out this thread for some budget ideas... http://www.wrxatlanta.com/forums/showthread.php?t=9402
Just search the forums and buy everything used, that will keep the cost down significantly. The dp, uppipe, and catback were okay on my car, but without the Cobb AP they really don't do much. If you want more power, try and find a used Cobb AP 1 for 400 and you can get some significant gains. With the extra 300, I am sure you could get a dp and uppipe.
Don't forget new gaskets when you do the DP/UP...I should put that in my sig...oh and for non power mods, front and rear sways are nice handling improvements, short shifter with bushings for a better shifter feel. All of these things, if you look for used, you can get for well under $700, the AP will set you back a little more, but its also well worth it!