Top 2 performance mods, opinions?

[Xdog]

Hey y'all, In '04, I'm looking to hook up my 6 spd. '03 XRS.

I'm doing tint, and a rear spoiler right after the holidays, maybe some new pedals and a shift knob as far as appearance mods go.

But I'd like to get your opinions about the top 2 down and dirty performance mods, excluding a turbo.

I've searched the archives, and come up with some pretty good ideas, but I'd like to hit y'all up for the latest info.

I'm leaning toward a cat-back stainless exhaust as one of them, as this seems pretty affordable and relatively simple.

But I'd like to hear from those of you who've "been there, done that". Please include specific part names and models, and if feeling extremely helpful, a link to the mfr. or pictures of suggested mods.

Happy holidays, and thanks in advance,

Xdog

[Deep]

In terms of engine mods I'd say intake first, then exhaust. Header would be in there too, but you asked for 2 only. And as far as I know, most bolt on exhausts are axle back.

[mistamatrix]

So far in my 03 XRS 6speed, I've got the TRD CAI, TRD strut brace, Progress rear sway bar and Hotchkis springs.

If I had to do-over, the first two things I'd buy first for THIS car is springs and the rear sway bar.

[Xdog]

57 views, and only 2 replies?

C'mon dudes, help a brutha out!

[MATR6]

1st mod I got was TRD Springs, my g/f bought them for me.
2nd TRD STB
3rd AEM CAI
4th 18" rims
5th Progress RSB

All those are what most people have or on their list.

[Dredd2099]

intake
exhaust

[1337trix]

^ couldnt have said it any better

[Zrain]

Top 2. nononono Top 3. Becuse there are 3 stpes to the operation of a mottor. intake, power, exhaust.

Im old school. less glow more go. Top 3 mods on ANY CAR.

Intake - This includes but is not limited to: Forced induction, filters, pipes, MAF's Throttel bodys, manafolds, superchargers, trubo's if u can fit them and any bypass vales/idel air controlers.

Fuel and spark dilivry - most over looked mod. i dont care how fly your turbo or intake is. more air means more gass. and if u dont have it when u want it you might as well put the stock intake pipes on. simple fuel upgrades can be a stronger pump, larger rail. biger injectors, new computer or chips. as for spark, dont skimp out on preformance plugs or wires, or even coil packs. a better spark can help a lot when you have a lot of fuel and air in a small spot. just an example porche use's 2 sparkplugs for one cilinder on some 911 models, just to get the most preformace out of there engine.

exhaust - the wounders of back preshure is somthing rocket scintists have been working on for years. and as a result, its wise to consider many many many manafolds before useing one. as a result its not uncomon to see stock exhaust manafolds out preforme aftermarket ones. so look before you leep. but after that HAVE FUN! the best case is no case, Just a strait 12 inch diamiter pipe out the back. its true a 13inch diamiter pipe will out preforme a 12inch pipe but at that point you just geting out of hand. (that was a joke, dual catback systems, larger pipe systems all help a lot. but its up to you and the sound you like. so my advice is to ignor the ADDS 5 HP!!!! tag on the box and just pick one you like.)