My current car is tuned and there's still noticeable difference between drive modes and throttle mapping. So unless a non drive mode car which is tuned is similar to drive mode in sport, I'd still want drive modes. I guess maybe that's where a true custom tune comes in to play?
Drives modes are huge. Even after boost I still use them. Not as often due to drag mode and boost on the street is like being thrown at a wall. At 460hp Drag mode is a blast. If you're considering lowering then I assume the look of the car matters. If that's the case then you want the PP1. Brembos, tires, wheels look better. Unless you want to piecemeal all of that which while will look how you want but will be more expensive. Of course suspension pieces are a part of that and tires that allow you to enjoy the drag modes. Personally I don't see the point of drag modes without the ability to put the power to the ground. Even with coil overs, lowered, and Continental Extreme sports I would lose traction in drag mode regularly when I was stock. Just going from 1st to 2nd (A10 not manual) was a real kick in the butt with grip.
you ask your tuner to set whatever gradients you want.
