Optimal Performance Gains for $

[GreyVA21]

Have a 2023 Non-PP GT (6-Speed). Only modifications I've done is install a Corsa Xtreme cat-back with Double H-Pipes, and throw on new wheels and tires (275 square setup). In terms of value, what would be the logical next step or purchase to increase performance (while keeping NA)? Have looked into a CAI + tune on 93 (no E85 near me), but from what I've researched, there aren't significant gains over the stock intake. Have though about headers as well, but I'm trying to keep spend on modifications <$3K or so, and would also like to increase handling as well (suspension kit or alike). Curious to hear thoughts or recommendations on the best way to spend my money for optimal gains in both engine performance + handling.

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[NGOT8R]

With less than $3K to spend, I’d focus on suspension first. When you tune the car, I’d also tune for E85, even if you have to go and fill two 5 gallon containers from a station that may be a ways away from you, in order to facilitate tuning. At least youl’ll have that tune for future use and only have to pay once for it, along with the 93 tune, vs not doing it and deciding later that you want an E85 tune and having to pay again.

 

[NGOT8R]

You should also think of doing things in stages. When you do your suspension mods, think of everything that you will eventually want to do suspension wise and plan it in a way to where you don’t have to uninstall things twice to add other desired parts.

I meant to ask, how will you be using the car? Road course, drag or just a nice street rod?

 

[jd_cobra]

I know it’s not technically an engine part, but do you have a short throw shifter? Mgw or Barton?

I agree with @NGOT8R
in my opinion, I always do suspension mods as one of the first because I believe in being able to sufficiently put the existing power down before adding more.

 

[SammyG83]

Just go with a Ford Performance Kit level whatever you are looking for. Get the CAI and tune as a package.

Just be careful that you don't start getting mods that you will change your mind about later. I had a CAI, $500 dollar tune etc. Then, it all became worthless once the Whipple went on. Think down the road. FYI- a tune may not appear noticeably different, but you can tell the difference from when it is there and when it isn't.

Maybe stick NGOT's advice and start working on the things that will stay no matter what while you figure out the rest for later.

 

[Barret72]

A couple of things.

1: There is a carbon trap or filter in the stock air intake of the 2023 GT's. Check for ways of removing that. I believe it free's up 5 to 10 hp. **Free**

2: https://www.mustang6g.com/forums/threads/m6g-suspension-nirvana.122473/
That is an older thread but talks about everything that can be done to better the suspension. Some of it is a bit more hard core but you need something on the IRS to "stop the hop". Springs and struts are a good idea but will come down to your taste. How low do you want to go? Are you in for comfort or do you want an actual sport car feel?

3: Seat time at an authorized track. An example would be Thedriversedge.net. This is in Texas but getting instruction, having fun and learning about the car is a great way to spend money. These driver's courses normally have a beginner or green run group that you start off in. You don't need to buy race tires or get new seats so you can have that 5 point harness or anything radical. Bring your car, a helmet and whatever else and learn and have fun. Virginia International raceway is in your neck of the woods but I don't know about any HPDE (high performance driving event) groups there.

 

[First Stang]

You could also look into weight reduction…not a lot to do there but people find ways to trim some weight.

 

[S550HPP]

Integrated front and rear stealth radar detectors and lazer jammers.

 

[junits15]

suspension for sure especially on a non PP 2023 manual car
My suggestions would be:

• rear subframe lockouts
• rear subframe braces
• rear subframe locator bushings
• rear toe bearings
• rear toe links (get the Ford performance ones)
• springs
• dampers
• front camber bolts (good idea when doing springs)
• rear camber adjustment plates (good idea when doing springs)

then go get an alignment and have it aligned to PP specs. This will drastically change the behavior of the car in a very noticeable way.

A 93 tune will do basically nothing on that car, you wont feel the difference, e85 will make a noticeable difference but if you don't have it nearby its not worth starting there. You can remove the carbon trap for some horsepower but you wont feel it.

You absolutely will feel suspension and rear end upgrades in a very positive way.

 

[robvas]

Save up for a blower. Buy the big $$ thing first, and the add the rest of the stuff later. You can spend $3k on suspension, tune, cold air, but the car won't really be any faster. Adding 200-300hp on the other hand...

 

[shogun32]

Only modifications I've done is install a Corsa Xtreme cat-back with Double H-Pipes,

you're spending money "fixing" things that don't need fixing. The chassis and shitty-ass suspension are legit problems. Also CAI are completely worthless.

If you can't tell how bad the chassis and suspension are just driving it around, I'd say stop spending money, because you're not able to read your car. And while you could add Bilsteins to all 4 corners, I wonder if you'd notice. If you don't, then it's just more wasted money.

Where are you in VA? Come see me (Tysons/Vienna) and you can drive my modified PP1 and Mach1 and make some observations.

And I have a pile of near-new suspension (Steeda) I'd like to get rid of.

 

[SBR70.3]

Suspension mods, then HPDE the hell out of it. The best money you can spend on your mustang is at the track.

 

[speedfrk]

Carbon fiber wheels...

 

[robvas]

Have a 2023 Non-PP GT (6-Speed). Only modifications I've done is install a Corsa Xtreme cat-back with Double H-Pipes

That's what $2,000 right there? Combine that with the $3,000 you now have burning a whole in your pocket, you could have gotten an ESS G2 tuner kit, and then just buy a tune and any needed fuel stuff down the road.

 

[sms2022]

E85 tune would be the best hp/$ since it’s essentially just $500 if you do a straight E85 tune without anything fancy and you pick up 60hp or so.

following that would be the ESS mentioned above.
There is generally an inverse law of diminishing returns between how much you are willing to spend and hp/$

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