Ive got a '94 Accord (ES I think, whatever the lowest end model is). Ive been toying with the idea of getting an srt4, or modding the hell out of a used car. One option is to take my current car and see what I can do with it.

I figure it would cost about $6k to get the dents hammered out, and a nice paint job, new air compressor, a tame and classy body kit, and new wheels/tires.

So how much would I have to spend on the performance mods?

My goal is to run low 13's (hopefully high 12's). If I was happy with a 13.9 then I would just get the srt4 w/warranty for $20k.

What performance mods do you guys suggest?

Obviously an engine swap a nice big turbo and installation - $4k ?

Suspension and stability? $?

Bolt ons? $?

Internals? $?

No NOS.

If I choose to go this route, as opposed to the srt4 then I would like to finish the project for under $7k in performance mods. Can I hit my target of low 13's ?

Im no car expert at the moment (so I dont know the specifics about what components I would need) but I have a close friend with a well equipped garage and years of experience to walk me through the modifications.

(Dont bother trashing the srt4. If you dont respect what dodge has done in making a fast affordable car, then I really dont care for your advice.)