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The Subaru BRZ and Toyota 86 have garnered a loyal following among car enthusiasts due to their lightweight design and engaging driving dynamics. For those looking to extract more performance from the FA20 engine without breaking the bank, there are several budget-friendly options available. In this article, we will explore the best performance parts that can provide a boost of 20-30 horsepower, all for under $1,000.
Why Upgrade Your FA20 Engine?
Upgrading the FA20 engine can significantly enhance your driving experience. Here are some reasons to consider performance parts:
- Increased horsepower and torque
- Improved throttle response
- Enhanced engine sound
- Better overall driving dynamics
Top Performance Parts Under $1,000
1. Cold Air Intake
A cold air intake is one of the simplest and most effective upgrades you can make. By allowing the engine to breathe better, a cold air intake can add around 5-10 horsepower. Popular options include:
- K&N 69-8006TS Typhoon Cold Air Intake
- AEM 21-740C Cold Air Intake System
2. Cat-Back Exhaust System
A cat-back exhaust system not only improves exhaust flow but also enhances the sound of your BRZ. Expect a horsepower gain of about 5-15 hp. Some budget-friendly options include:
- Invidia Q300 Cat-Back Exhaust
- Remark Axle-Back Exhaust System
3. ECU Tune
An ECU tune can optimize your engine’s performance by adjusting fuel maps and ignition timing. This can yield a significant horsepower increase, typically around 10-20 hp. Consider these options:
- OpenFlash Tablet
- ECUtek Tune
4. Lightweight Flywheel
Swapping out the stock flywheel for a lightweight version can improve throttle response and decrease engine load. This modification can add about 5 hp and make your car feel more lively. Recommended products include:
- Exedy Lightweight Flywheel
- ACT Lightweight Flywheel
5. Performance Headers
Upgrading to performance headers can improve exhaust flow and increase horsepower by 10-15 hp. Look for options such as:
- Nameless Performance Headers
- Invidia UEL Headers
Combining Upgrades for Maximum Effect
For those serious about performance, combining several of these upgrades can lead to a more significant horsepower boost. Here’s how to effectively pair parts:
- Cold Air Intake + Cat-Back Exhaust = Enhanced Breathing
- ECU Tune + Performance Headers = Optimized Power Delivery
- Lightweight Flywheel + ECU Tune = Improved Throttle Response
Conclusion
Upgrading your Subaru BRZ FA20 engine doesn’t have to be an expensive endeavor. With the right performance parts under $1,000, you can achieve a noticeable increase in horsepower and transform your driving experience. Whether you choose to start with a cold air intake or go for a complete exhaust system, each modification brings you closer to unlocking the full potential of your vehicle.