Int + TBE + Meth + SSAFC+ MBC = 200whp on the cheap
all that is maybe $1200-$1300
I like your list. I don't think it can be had for $1300, but not too far off. I don't think meth or any charge cooling is a good idea on a daily driver. Nor is it necessary for 200whp on an MSP. Sure, it buys some insurance, but you don't really need it with a pggyback like the SSAFC.
There are no more full turbo back exhausts being sold AFAIK. The Ion and the GHL both are out of production. The only downpipes really that exist are Corksport's at $400, and this new universal Edelbrock that Chiqles found. I am sure the Edelbrock will need some kind of modification like an extended waterneck on the thermostat housing like Pope's 3" DP required, but I like the fact that it is cast iron.
The Corksport DP's have been known to break even with the "required" motor mount inserts, so any way you go, you need a flex pipe installed. You'll need a 2.5" cat to match, and then custom work all the way back to keep a stock appearance. The bazooka that now sticks out under the rear skirt with most of the aftermarket options looks far too on the ricey side for my tastes.
I was quoted $700 to do the flex pipe to tailpipe with a cat and a resonator all at 3". Would be cheaper of course without a cat or resonator, and 2.5" would probably be a bit cheaper as well and still overkill for 200whp.
SSAFC's typically run $2-300 used on here, but you also need a patch harness since you really don't want to cut up the stock harness. New patch harnesses are a huge rip off, but I haven't found an alternative to just biting the bullet and shelling out the $200.
The Injen and AEM intakes that use the fortuitous hole in the driver's side of the engine bay (because it is a mirrored part and is where the windshield washer fluid reservoir sits on the other side), is ingenious and has obvious advantages to a short ram intake. They are pricey but can be found used.
If you want HP on the cheap, I would also suggest removing the butterflies from the IM. You could also "port and polish" but I've seen enough of those jobs go wrong to advise against that for most novices. This mod will only cost you an IM gasket, labor and tools. Although, at this age, there are going to be some cracked hoses, so factor in some new hoses while you are at it.
So with some bargain hunting and tool borrowing, maybe $1500 is possible, but then you have to ask yourself. This car is worth $5-6k, is it really worth putting 25% of the car's value into it. Or is that $1500 plus the $5k for the car better used as a downpayment on an FRS?
But I understand this is a hobby and although an expensive one, you are paying to have fun and learn, not necessarily get value out of your purchases. Plus if you keep your stock parts, you can sell the mods when it time to move on.
