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Building a performance car on a budget can be a daunting task, but with the right approach, it can also be incredibly rewarding. In this article, we will explore how a $3,000 A-body Mopar build managed to shave 0.2 seconds off my quarter-mile time. This journey involved careful planning, smart purchasing, and a bit of elbow grease.
The A-Body Mopar Platform
The A-body Mopar platform, which includes models like the Plymouth Duster and Dodge Dart, is known for its lightweight construction and potential for performance upgrades. These cars are often overlooked, but they provide a solid foundation for building a quick drag car.
<h3.Choosing the Right ModelWhen selecting an A-body Mopar for a drag build, consider the following:
- Weight: Lighter models will generally perform better.
- Engine options: Look for models with V8 options for better performance potential.
- Condition: A car in good condition will save you money on repairs.
Budget Breakdown
Staying within a $3,000 budget requires smart spending. Here’s how the budget was allocated for this build:
- Purchase price of the car: $1,500
- Engine upgrades: $800
- Suspension modifications: $400
- Tires and wheels: $300</li
- Miscellaneous parts: $200
Engine Upgrades
The heart of any drag car is its engine. For this build, I focused on maximizing horsepower and torque without breaking the bank. Here are the key upgrades made:
- Intake manifold swap for improved airflow.
- Performance carburetor for better fuel delivery.
- Headers to enhance exhaust flow.
- Tuning for optimal performance.
Suspension Modifications
A good suspension setup is crucial for maximizing traction on the drag strip. Here’s what was done:
- Upgraded shocks and struts for better handling.
- Stiffer springs to reduce body roll.
- Traction bars to improve rear tire grip.
Tires and Wheels
Choosing the right tires and wheels can make a significant difference in performance. For this build, I opted for:
- Lightweight racing wheels to reduce unsprung weight.
- Drag radials for maximum grip on the strip.
Testing and Results
After completing the build, it was time to hit the drag strip and see how the modifications performed. The initial quarter-mile time was clocked at 12.5 seconds. After implementing the upgrades, the time improved to 12.3 seconds, a reduction of 0.2 seconds.
Factors Contributing to Improved Times
Several factors contributed to the improved quarter-mile time:
- Increased horsepower from engine upgrades.
- Better traction from suspension and tire improvements.
- Improved weight distribution and aerodynamics.
Conclusion
Building a fast A-body Mopar on a budget is not only possible but also a thrilling experience. With careful planning and strategic upgrades, I was able to shave 0.2 seconds off my quarter-mile time while staying within a $3,000 budget. This project proves that with dedication and creativity, performance can be achieved without breaking the bank.