Originally posted by SoboDave:
I have a 2.0L 98 Contour with 108,000 miles. I haven't modded anything and everything is in great shape. I just discovered this site and a little overwhelmed. If I wanted to start with a small mod to enging or suspension, like something that cost under $200, is there anything at that level that a beginner could do themselves that would make a difference in how the car performs?
No mods yet. I suppose that means you're on your original suspension, right?
Let's see, under $200...
Used rear early SE or SVT swaybar (check the classifieds) and new Energy Suspension poly bar/endlink bushings (SP Motorsports).
After that, you might have enough left for a rear strut brace (check the Group Buy section), depending on what you payed for the rear bar.
What kind of wheels do you have? Tranny?
Anyway, I'd hit the suspension hard before I did any engine work. I think you'll always be disappointed with your engine mods (unless you spend considerable money), whereas there are a lot of basically underpowered cars out there that are loads of fun because they are so tossable. Swaybars make a big difference.
And I ask about your "original" suspension because surely it's due soon for some love, at which time you may want to upgrade--but maybe that's not quite for a beginner. Get comfortable with the car, first. Anyway my point is that replacing all of the components with OEM pieces isn't that much less than replacing with something like the BAT kit.
Function before fashion.
'96 Contour SE
"Toss the Contour into a corner, and it's as easy to catch as a softball thrown by a preschooler." -Edmunds, 1998
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