Best option to get more HP from ST202 (excl buying GT-Four), tl;dr: Like my ST202, want more HP, willing to spend 2-3k EUR. Options

[nerevar]

I've had my car for a few years now and I really like it. I also know all its faults and I did quite a lot of work on it (repaint, interior etc.). However, the car is way too slow, be it just 170 HP or the horses that died since it was new. I think something around 250 HP should be enough to give it a bit more ooomph for a few more years (and avoid being chased by vans on the highway).

There are very few LHD GT-Fours in continental Europe so buying one is out of the question. I'm also not buying a different car because anything I'd like is in the 15k-20k EUR range. And I'm not willing to spend that much on a car with all the new issues that it'll bring.

So I'm willing to spend another 2-3k EUR to get more HP from te current car. What is the best option? Getting a 3SGTE, boosting the current engine, something else?

If I get 3SGTE, how much work is the swap? Since most engines are from RHD cars, are there any complications installing it into LHD?

[Box]

Here's an article on modifying your engine: http://www.roadandtrack.net.au/images/stor...urbo_engine.pdf

Here's one on swapping from a 5S-FE to a 3S-GTE, I'd imagine 3S-GE to 3S-GTE would be even simpler: http://www.6gc.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=82196

170 hp in a 2,500-2,600 pound car should feel fairly spirited, so first thing would be to make sure the engine is healthy by running compression and leak down tests and then you'll have a better idea on where you stand. Last time I looked it was around $3,000 USD for the 3S-GTE, ECU, and harness which prices could be higher or lower in your area. If the engine you have is healthy and running optimally you'll probably only be happy with the power the 3S-GTE can readily deliver.

[The_enD]

Was down the same road, had a 7a-fe in my Celica, wanted more power and thought about swapping a 3s-gte, then I saw the prices of GT4s in UK and got one. Was not very keen on that much power on just the front wheels.

[nerevar]

Thanks for the links.

Well, with slow I didn't mean it's like REALLY slow but it's far from what I'd like it to be (not to mention how it looks).

If anybody else has any comments, please let me know.

[jordisonjr]

Boosting or swapping a 3s would be your best options.
Of course, there's always the v6 swaps, however I'm not sure how attainable those are out there, and also will require more work than a simple swap, like the 3s. Especially if you have a GT.

[955SFE]

I hope you ain't complaining about the 3sge. Just remember there are those who have a 5sfe and lets not forget those with a 7afe.

[Smaay]

in your case, the 3S-GTE is the best option. Its a very simple swap with minimal mods to the car. if you can get a clip, thats best. otherwise you will need to do some wiring.

my engine they cut the harness at the starter, so i had no EA1 plug nor the intercooler relay or pump. I ended up buying a 94GT harness and the color code for wires was the same. I fooled the Code 54 and its running strong.

[nerevar]

Thanks for the answers, I'll see if I'll be able to find a Gt-Four clip.