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The Subaru WRX is a beloved vehicle among car enthusiasts, particularly those who enjoy tuning and modifying their cars for enhanced performance. When aiming for a built engine that produces 500 horsepower, it’s crucial to consider not only the powertrain but also the handling and drivetrain upgrades necessary to support this level of performance. In this article, we will explore essential upgrades that can help you achieve optimal handling and drivetrain efficiency for your WRX.
Understanding the Basics
Before diving into specific upgrades, it’s important to understand how power affects handling and drivetrain performance. When you increase horsepower significantly, the vehicle’s dynamics change, requiring upgrades in various areas to maintain balance, control, and reliability.
Drivetrain Upgrades
The drivetrain is responsible for transferring power from the engine to the wheels. For a WRX built engine producing 500 hp, several upgrades are necessary to ensure that the drivetrain can handle the increased power without failure.
- Transmission Upgrade: Consider upgrading to a stronger transmission, such as the Subaru STI 6-speed, to handle the increased torque.
- Clutch Replacement: A high-performance clutch is essential for transferring power effectively and preventing slippage.
- Differential Upgrades: Upgrading to a limited-slip differential (LSD) can improve traction and handling, especially during aggressive driving.
- Driveshaft Improvements: A lightweight, stronger driveshaft will help reduce rotational mass and improve power delivery to the wheels.
Handling Enhancements
With the added horsepower, it’s crucial to enhance handling to maintain control during acceleration, cornering, and braking. Here are some key upgrades to consider:
- Suspension Upgrades: Upgrading to coilovers or adjustable shocks can significantly improve handling by allowing for better tuning of ride height and stiffness.
- Sway Bars: Installing larger front and rear sway bars can reduce body roll during cornering, enhancing stability and grip.
- Strut Braces: Adding strut tower braces can improve chassis rigidity, leading to better handling characteristics.
- Tires: High-performance tires are essential for maximizing grip and ensuring that the power is effectively transferred to the road.
Brake System Upgrades
As power increases, so does the need for effective braking. Upgrading the brake system is vital for safety and performance. Key components to consider include:
- Brake Pads: Invest in high-performance brake pads that can withstand higher temperatures and provide better stopping power.
- Rotors: Upgrading to larger, slotted, or drilled rotors can improve heat dissipation and overall braking performance.
- Calipers: Consider upgrading to larger calipers for increased clamping force and improved braking efficiency.
- Brake Lines: Stainless steel braided brake lines can improve pedal feel and responsiveness.
Weight Reduction Strategies
Reducing weight can significantly enhance the performance of your WRX. A lighter vehicle accelerates faster and handles better. Here are some strategies for weight reduction:
- Lightweight Wheels: Choose lightweight alloy wheels to reduce unsprung weight, improving handling and acceleration.
- Removal of Unnecessary Components: Consider removing non-essential components like rear seats or sound deadening material to shed weight.
- Carbon Fiber Parts: Replace heavier body panels with carbon fiber alternatives for significant weight savings.
- Battery Upgrade: A lightweight lithium-ion battery can help reduce overall weight without compromising performance.
Tuning and Calibration
Once all upgrades are installed, proper tuning is essential to ensure that the engine and drivetrain work harmoniously. A professional tune can optimize fuel maps and ignition timing, ensuring that your WRX runs efficiently at the new power levels.
Conclusion
Achieving 500 horsepower in your WRX is an exciting goal, but it requires careful consideration of handling and drivetrain upgrades. By investing in the right components and ensuring proper tuning, you can enjoy a high-performance WRX that is not only powerful but also safe and fun to drive.