Got to agree with the STi being on par with the Cobra. I would own one if I had the money. They look like fun little cars. Then again, how much more could you do to them without tearing into the motor or breaking the drivetrain?
NitrousPete added an automatic, Kenny Bell blower, fuel system, exhaust system, and a shot of nitrous and slaps almost 900 to the ground. Others have done similer (without nitrous) and put almost 800 to the ground and have them as daily drivers. I just don't see a 4 banger doing that. No replacement for displacement.
All things considered, I honestly think the new Cobras are the best bang for the buck and have the greatest amount of potential out of any factory car right now. That will change soon enough, but honors go to Ford for now.
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SOLD 6-17-06
'01 Silver Cobra #2709
Procharger P1SC w/10# pulley, 3 core IC, Bassani OR X, Steeda catback, 42# injectors, Lightning 80mm MAF, Tri-Ax, Fat Knob, Battery in da' trunk, JMS Tune 432rwhp / 390rwtq 12.54 @ 115 on street radials
SOLD 6-13-03
'98 Laser Red Cobra #634 of 5174
UPR Power Pipe, BBK off-road H, Flowmasters, 4.10 gears, battery relocated to da' trunk, rear seat delete, Cobra R 17x9 rims with Nitto 315's out back, shaved door locks, 13.35 @105