Might as well start by saying I'm a novice to cars, and though I've used the search button and done what research I can, I still have a few unanswered questions. I have a 2006 cobalt lt sedan (auto), and I'm wondering how much is a sedan going to restrict me from improving performance? And since it is an auto, is making any performance upgrades a lost cause?

Now, if all is not lost, I planned on doing some common things - intake, exhaust and header. But, by doing these things, is there any risk? I'm not looking to go much further into more expensive and more powerful mods, but just to make some improvements. Any other ideas for simple and less-expensive mods?

Say, though, I do get these mods, and some a--hole pulls up and wants to race. Any chance?

Thanks from a beginner

 

get all those regular bolt on's header, downpipe catback exhaust and intake, then tune the engine and tranny and you may be able to hit low 15's in the 1/4 mile

 

You're never a lost cause.

Being a sedan driver doesn't really hurt. Most of the modified Civics and Integras out there are sedans, so don't worry about what kind of body style you drive.

I also drive an automatic. While many options are available for manuals, there are still ways to compete with automatics. I don't know whether any site vendors have anything for our models yet, but I'll keep looking and so should you.

There are always risks when upgrading your car. Even the simplest thing can have bad results. It's important to know enough about the parts you are installing and who is doing the install to trust that it will go well.

Do you have a chance racing with just exhaust parts? I'd say don't even try. I have only minimal performance mods right now. I'm not racing cocky street racers until I have something worth proving and a reason to race. It's always safer with less crazy people trying to prove themselves on the streets. Start at a track and get confident with your car before you hit the streets.

He doesn't have tuning yet.

 

go with the basic boltons

 

if exhaust parts won't get me quite there, what other kind of mods would you recommend? I was trying to use the street race as an example of how my car with those upgrades would averagely fair, but I don't strictly mean a street race. I've though about an eibach pro-kit and lightweight rims too, those would probably help, if at least a bit?

 

a turbo/supercharger is the cheapest way to make a big power increase over extended periods of time

 

Start with the basic GMPP Parts -- Cat-back exhaust, Performance Intake, and Extrude-honed manifold. You will be happy with the additional performance (10-20 HP), as well as the sound when you get into the throttle.
I recommend you get them through CrateEngineDepot unless your dealer will sell them to you for the same price.

 

sedans are sleepers :