Originally Posted by TobinH

I'm gonna be a bit contrary here (all IMO, of course), and suggest that if performance is your goal, power should probably be the last area you look at.

If you have stock wheels, you're probably running a 245 front tire - this platform needs at least a 265 in the front, and whatever suits your power goals in the rear. Then you'll likely want a stiffer front sway bar, Hotchkis is a popular choice. You may find the the rear of the car a bit 'squishy' at this point, there are various options to firm it up.

But - this depends what 'performance' means to you. A lot of folks buy this car to do 'highway pulls'. IMO, they'd be happier with a V8 Mustang, but regardless, if this is you then yes you'll want to chase power.

Still others are more interested in the 'aesthetics' of performance. They don't want to really go fast, they want a car that gives off that fast 'vibe'. This is where exhausts and intakes and 20" wheels come in. The gains are pretty minimal, sometimes actually negative, but you get the right sounds and look.

It's wise to figure out what you really want before spending money.