I don't know much about cars but I'm thinking of getting a 2009 Base model as my first manual and daily. I know they have 117HP but would it be possible to increase it without heavily modding it? No turbo or Supercharger? I read that with a good exhaust system, air intake system, and a better suspension might help with a car's performance.
How much of a difference would that make?
Would i be able to reach 130HP as stock 3rd gen?
is 117HP enough?
What else can i add/change for improvements?
Should i just forget about it and get a 3rd gen?

Some of the other mods i'm interested in doing to the 2nd gen are :
- Spacers
- Body Kit
- Fog Lights
- Adding a bluetooth radio
- Better Head & Tail Lights
- Steering wheel audio controls
- Paint job from Silver to White

I feel like even with all these things. This is still going to be cheaper than a 3rd gen.

 

To be able ti get the crank hp from 117 to 130.... It's gonna take a bit.... You can go with the usual... Intake, header, exhaust... But on top of that you might need a ECU management.... Hondata or KTuner.... And then maybe you'll be able to get the HP's you desire

 

And it'll be in the upper range if you do that stuff.

If anyone knows how to improve low end torque, even a little, I would be all ears

I think one thing you may be missing is this. The first and third gen are very different. The trans feel, steering ride etc on the modern car are NOT gonna be as fun as the first. On the flip side the comfort safety and speed will be better. But I would not think of them as two ways to the same goal, you know?

 

I feel for you. Same intentions when I got my GE. Base model, manual. Doing performance mods is expensive, and this iteration of the fit lacks aftermarket support. I'd suggest considering picking a different car if notable hp increase is your intention, but that's just my 2¢
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Put your money into suspension and brakes.

 

^^This.

Everyone's first mod is a power mod. Some people never even think about tires, brakes and suspension. This is boneheaded thinking, my amigos.

Also, manage your power-to-weight ratio, i.e., make the car lighter if you can.

 

Suspension and brakes all day. These cars don't really need more HP to have fun in.

 

Can check out the superstreet thread I posted up for some mod ideas. Those guys were pretty awesome.

 

Great idea for a thread 👍