Expert: Dan Liddy - 9/16/2007

Question
i don't have alot of money, and i was wondering what i could do to my car that was give it more power but i could afford?

Answer
Hi Colin:

I try to limit my questions to real racing cars only, but I'll make an exception.

You can do a tune up with new spark plugs and wires, and a new air filter.  While you are buying the air filter, change to the special one from K&N- - -they are usually under $50.00 and will help with performance, and depending on how you drive, also help gas mileage. There is not much else that isn't more expensive than that.

Another thing that a lot of people don't think about though is the WEIGHT of thiier car.  If you remove the spare tire, carpeting in the trunk, jacks, tools and extra stuff, it will help. I've known people who were able to remove 300 pounds from their car and that's when they started winning at the drag strip.

A word about performance though.  Horsepower comes from the burning of gasoline or other fuel.  If you desire more power YOU MUST USE MORE GAS.  There is no way around it. Be prepared to take a beating at the pump if you decide to modify your engine.

-There's an old saying around race shops. " Racing is expensive- - -how fast do you want to spend your money ?"

My suggestion to you is this, and it's a very good one.
STAY IN SCHOOL, FINISH COLLEGE !  Then you should be able to find the kind of job that will allow you to afford some good performance parts. Maybe even do some real racing with the Sports Car Club of America.  A fun amateur group with local groups all over the US. (see 'www.scca.org' for info)

Good luck.

Dan Liddy
Sarasota, Florida