i wasn't targeting you in any way, just making a general statement to everyone in the thread per se. i think a full slate of well planned bolt ons is the way to go
I agree with the good captain about holding off on the turbo or ANY major power upgrades for the moment.
I would say upgrade your car in the following order no matter how far you plan to take it. Obviously, how far you ultimately go depends on money, but this is a good general guideline for taking your car from stock to DAMN!! If anyone thinks anything should be added to the list or suggests a different order, please do so. This list is simply IMHO.
MOD List by priority:
1) an intake (COBB SRI, AEM CAI, etc.)
2) a by-pass valve (HKS SSQV, Synapse Synchronic, Forge, etc.)
3) a rear motor mount (Street Unit, TRZ, etc.)
4) handling/braking (coilovers, sway bars, new brake rotors and brake pads, wheels, tires, etc.).
5) Engine Monitoring Electronics (gauges, displays, etc)
6) Engine tuner (COBB AP, Unichip, etc.)
My guess is that around step 4, 5, or 6 is where you would run out of your $5,000 depending on what parts you buy (as you can see by my sig, I am currently working on step 4 and 5 and running about $6,000 with my mod list).
IF you ever use more money for your car, continue below:
7) CDFP fuel pump upgrade
8) Upgraded Exhaust System (Manifold, TBE, etc.)
9) FMIC
10) Upgraded Clutch/Transmission (Spec Stage 2 or 3 clutch, etc.)
11) Upgraded Engine Block (pistons, rods, etc.)
12) Upgraded Turbo
This way, IF you ever want to upgrade the turbo, the car will be able to handle all the extra power you are putting down.