How To Soup Up Your Car

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2003 Dodge Truck from 2 Fast 2 Furious, Credit: Universal Pictures
Now that your honey looks good, you can take some time to make it run just as great. There are modifications you can make so that your car can be faster and more powerful than the manufacturer ever thought possible. Here are some of them:

Speed chip

If you own a 1963 Corvette, you can skip this section. Performance chips are found in modern cars and they control what's going on under the hood — things like fuel injection, engine timing, and automatic transmission. Installing a performance chip will increase your power, especially if you have a propensity for revving your engine to over 3,500 RPMs. The downside, though, is that you will have to use premium gas.


The best way to increase your horsepower is to supercharge your engine. Once you install this device on your engine, it will increase the amount of air and fuel that can be crammed into the cylinders. The effect will be that this combustion charge will become more vigorous and the engine will produce more power and torque.


The ignition system is the heart of a high-performance vehicle. Electronically controlled, the module allows the spark energy to be optimized from the coil. It's usually quite simple to install.

Low-profile tires

Low-profile tires are actually bigger than regular tires. The difference is that the space between the outer edge and the rim is smaller, hence the term "skinny." They help the car's acceleration properties and, some believe, overall fuel consumption.

Air filter

A good air intake pipe is mounted under the fender so that it won't absorb warm air from the engine. If your car's set-up is already laid out this way, all you'll need to do is substitute the stock paper filter for a reusable one. You could gain up to 11 horsepower.

Nitrous Oxide System

When installed properly, N2O can turn your car into a rocket. The way it works is that, when injected into the engine, nitrous oxide gas is heated and divides into oxygen and nitrogen. More oxygen in the engine leads to more gas being pumped into it and therefore the engine produces more energy and power. Use this only if fuel economy isn't a pricey issue for you.

additional gauges

Most cars come with a speedometer, a tachometer, and a fuel and temperature gauge. If you're serious about souping up your car, you'll need more dials on your dashboard to inform you about how your automobile is behaving under the hood. Consider installing an oil pressure gauge, and, to control the battery's performance, a voltmeter and an ammeter.


Before you get to work on turning your baby into a monster, make sure that all systems complement one another. Everything must be compatible otherwise you may find a few bumps in the road.

Moreover, make certain that your potential modifications comply with local regulations. The DMV and Police Department are aware of the rules in your area so don't be afraid to consult them before shelling your hard-earned cash on upgrades you might not even be allowed to use.

And speaking of money, establish a budget before you start and make sure you respect it. Expenses can pile up quickly but if you go into it prepared, you shouldn't have any nasty surprises.

When it comes to performance, there is virtually no limit to what you can modify on your car to enhance it. Changing the suspension, exhaust system, brakes, or starter will always give it that extra oomph .

When it's time to test the vehicle, don't fall prey to street racing just because it seemed cool in The Fast and the Furious . If you absolutely feel compelled to race, rent time at a local track and have fun with your friends. Most importantly, always play safe!



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