Recently got a new job. And now I am more than ever able to afford upgrades for my car in a hurry. 2005 WRX Sti. Was wondering what oppinions you all might have on different brands and etc. Looking to keep the TMIC but upgrade it. Also, looking stock is a priority. So, more power and handling with a stock look. You can guess reasoning behind looking stock. Also, is the ESX upgrade kits worth it? And also are the ESX rims worth it?? Quality, weight etc... Looking for a gunmetal or black spoked rim with a polished or chrome lip. Just think it would look great with my black car. And it is my personal style. Also, got the car with a clock instead of the gauge option. Looked at many housings and gauges to put in its place. Any oppinions on quality? And Exhaust systems? I read up on the DC Sports Exhaust have those problems been fixed. I am looking for Stainless Steel turbo back exhaust. Other than that I am settled on a Cobb Access Port and couple other things. Do need to find a Tuning shop here in Cleveland Area. Anyone know where I can find one?

 

Wow, thats alot of questions! IMO, if you want a bit of added power take your car to a stage II. I think you should stay away from kits as you never get exactly what you want and there is not much of a price break (if any). For power follow these steps...

1) Engine Tuning: For simplicity, go with an EcuTek or Cobb Accessport. Both are reflashes and can be tuned by almost all pro tuners.
2) Turbo Back Exhaust: Honestly, you get what you pay for here. I have a PDE downpipe and a DC Sport catback. You don't have to go huge on the $$$ spent - HKS is great for the bling factor but wont give you any more HP than any other mandrel bent exhaust.
3) Injectors: 800 cc (or slightly more) from PE (Power Enterprises) or Perrin.
4) Fuel Pump: Walbro 255 lph
6) Fuel rails: I have perrin.
7) Braided fuel lines...

IMO you should also upgrade suspension.
1) Eliminate the stock push by upgrading swaybars.
2) Increase response with upgraded endlinks.
3) New coil over dampners (I have Tein Flex with EDFC)

Hope that helps!