Owner of a 6th gen looking to mod!, Starting slow and then more Options

[Raige]

I have a 1994 Celica ST, and like it so much I looked at newer celicas and happened upon a Like new, fully optioned 1997 Toyota Celica GT.

No pictures yet but even the pain is flawless. Only 60,000 miles. *grins*.

I'm looking to do some modifications mainly to the power at first and some body but lets start slow.

Cold Air Induction im told is a great way to start. It already has allow wheels, though they are stock and not too fancy. I might go that way but that can get pretty expensive to get "nice" looking.

My mindset is keeping it sleek and quiet. It's Jet black, very glossy.

Things I'd like to see with the car are:

1) More Horsepower (currently has stock. Want to up that a bit without damaging engine).
2) Nice Sound. The Tkssss sound a GOOD Cold Air Intake system makes is definitely what I'm looking for.
3) I'd prefer a hum... not a mexican fiesta party in my muffler.

My goal with this car is to be a head turner and a fun ride without it being labeled a rice mobile. Here's my car.

Raige's 1997 Toyota Celica GT

Tell me what you think I should do!

Thanks a bunch! I'm gonna look at some of the cars here and get ideas!

[boosted_K2]

my basic list to meet "My goal with this car is to be a head turner and a fun ride without it being labeled a rice mobile."

1) dont base ANYTHING on HP numbers, mods will not gain you a standardized number (in example: so and so exhaust will net you 15 HP... its all bull****. your car as it sits is lucky to be putting 100-105 HP to the wheels, dumping money on bolt-ons in the effort to gain HP is useless)
2)with that in mind the car should already be "fun" so to enhance this effect adding grippier tires (id recommend Falken GR-Betas) and a decent set of 16-17" wheels will suit you fine. Eibach Sportline/Prokit springs and a set of KYB shocks will enhance your handling further and a basic E-bay strut tower bar (modified, its not hard) will help to make the frame more rigid giving it a crisper feel, going from there you can also possibly find a suspension techniques or TRD front sway bar.
3)i am not sure about your local laws, but FWIW i would suggest getting a de-cat pipe and keeping your factory muffler, this will allow you to get a better tone from your exhaust, but will also leave it stock looking (less haggle from authorities) and you wont get that 'Ricer' exhaust note
4)personally i wouldnt touch the motor, my two cents is the car can be enjoyed how it is, why change it.