HI. To answer my own question, yes I know if I upgrade to an FM II from my Vodoo II its going to be faster, even on a 1.6 with 2554 turbo.

My question is, how much faster, from an actual and seat of the pants feel?

Is it worth it from a cost/benefit perspective (ok, this one is totally subjective and I understand that)

Anyone out there with experience in going from say 180 HP to 230 HP? Has anyone done this upgrade and what were the results, etc.

Thanks

 

50hp? Yes you will feel it. Big time.
more importantly, with proper management the car will run better EVERYWHERE and not just make more peak power.

 

You can do virtually the same thing by grabbing some 460-550cc injectors (Rx7) and throwing in a MSII/MSIII. Save lots of $$$$. True you don't get the FM support you'd have with a Hydra...but you could use that cash for dyno time...or coke an' hookers.

 

/\ True

 

just make sure whatever you do the car has a good tune. Not some base map crap but I road and or dyno tune for your area

 

megasquirt was pretty easy to get used to... also helped having AMS smooth out the tune just a tad.

BUT, i wish i could have FM support since this is my daily driver; just something to consider.

and yes... over 200hp feels very nice

 

Thanks so far. I do like the FM support. The car has been running flawlessly since the install this summer. I want to upgrade the rear end first as right now that is my weakest link, ( already did clutch, flywheel, wheels, tires, brakes, and some of the suspension) and then go for more power.

I went from being beaten by minivans to holding my own with 180HP, but I think if I move to 230 HP I can really start not having to worry about many (not all) other cars besting me.

I know the FM parts cost more, but so far it has been 100% reliable and hassle free and that is worth it to me.

 

I finally got my car tuned and turned up the boost. The jump from 180hp to 220hp was significant. It completely changes the car and is definitely worth it. Besides, the voodoo band-aid box is not worth it. A real ecu will make the car drive so much better

 

Thanks. Anyone see any issues with the fact that I have the 2554 and not a larger turbo. I really don't want to change out the turbo next spring. Its brand new

 

If you like it and want to keep it thats all that matters.
Why would there be issues

 

You'll get a little faster response and probably lose some power up top, but it will still be good. Some people prefer the smaller turbo for response

 

That answers my question perfectly. Thanks.

 

Why would he lose power up top? An ECU will give him better response, better spool-up, and more power everywhere.

 

I think I would make less power up top as the smaller turbo reaches the end of its effciency range as compared to a larger turbo with more "headroom".

 

*edit: he beat me to it lol

 

Do it, especially if you don't have to worry about emissions.

 

This is what I'm doing. A DIYPNP, 600CC DW injectors, and an LC-1 cost me approximately $1,200. I'm undecided on ordering an FM no electronics kit, a Bell S1, or a Bell S4 Shanghai next week, but there will be approximately a $1,000 difference between my setup and an FMII Hydra.

 

I'm installing an FM no elec kit. Already have LC-1 and MS-1. /\ WAAAAY more savings than that! F'n Hydra is cool but it's a fortune.

 

Believe me, I am all for a stand-alone. As other people said, I was talking bout the smaller turbo

 

Well, I ordered mine today. Hopefully I get my DIYPNP around the same time frame..