I just purchased an '89 3.2 carrera (mint, 43000 miles). I put on another 1000 miles in my first week of ownership, but I have a question: What kinds of upgrades are available on a low-cost basis? a K&N air filter is on my list, but aside from exhaust or chip mods, is there any other bolt-on horsepower boost? The internet has so far been unhelpful. Thanks in advance for any input.

 

JGordon

Save your money, the best performance increase for the money on a 3.2 is an exhaust change, B & B, SSI, or whatever. Drive your car till you can afford this upgrade.

 

there is a long discussion on the 911 board look for the topic "Mass Air Flow Performance "

try this link
http://forums.rennlist.com/scripts/r...c&f=1&t=001130

 

The thread under "mass air flow" is a little more involved than what I had in mind. I'm more looking to things like the air filter, just trying to squeeze out a few horsepower here and there without any significant mods. Are there really that many that you can do?

 

J Gordon:

There are no cheap quickies for increasing the performance of your Carrera, save your money. An air cleaner change will do nothing aside from lowering your checking account unless your current one needs replacement.

For sure, make certain that you are getting full throttle; you'd be amazed to know how many cars do not get full throttle when the gas pedal is pushed to the floor.

The single most cost-effective upgrade is a GOOD chip.

Other things that will make a significant difference are not cheap; SSI's & Sport muffler, MAFS, etc.

I would sure consider a close-ratio gearset before a MAFS. Much bigger bang-for-the-buck, IMHO.

 

Do you guys know of any less expensive exhaust alternatives, or any places that source used exhaust systems?

Gee, porsches sure are expensive......

 

Jason is that you? I thnk your going fast enough!

BB

 

If You want more performance from a 911 3.0sc or 3.2cacrera just get a catbypass pipe and freeflow dual exhaust. On the 3.2L car you want a matching chip tuned for your freeflow exhaust. Youll add over 25hp to these cars with afreeflow exhaust and be easily able to pass emissions BY slapping on the cat (9bolts) when needed.

There is so much proven data on this topic its guaranteed. Fabspeed Motorsport offers the finest European T304SS premufflers ( a euphenism for a catbypass pipe)that allow a golf ball to roll thru YET look like a stock cat although polished stainless steel that has a mirror shine. You dont have to spend major league dollars to significantly wake up the performance of a 1978-1989 911. Go check it out @Fabspeed Motorsport T304SS exhaust & chips and Carrera CUP airboxes